I know it's been quite awhile since I posted last (shame on me!). It was a combo of enjoying my 4 day vacation combined with a need to be re-inspired. But don't you worry, after a refreshing few days off I feel very motivated and deeply inspired to start a new project.
I've been thinking about this for about a month now, and watching a heart-changing documentary ("The Human Experience"), I believe it's finally time to make this dream/goal a reality:
{ THE SUNSHINE PROJECT }
Over the next 30 days, I am on a mission to make a positive change on the world one random act of kindness at a time. I've realized that life is not about me, and it's far too short to be inwardly focused.
Keep in mind that this project in no way is meant to glorify me. I want this to be a meaningful project that may possibly inspire others to spread some sunshine.
I have no set agenda or plan of what to do each day, I simply want to have my eyes and ears open for little ways I can spread cheer. Not only is this a personal mission to spread happiness and love to people that may need it most, but I have a big feeling that it will change me too.
{ Join me! }
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Day 1: Cup o' Joy
I woke up this morning extremely happy. I knew today was the first day of my little project and I couldn't wait to get started!
Now those that know me best realize that most mornings I am on "Meg time" - ie: I'm running late. Not this morning, my friends. I was up and ready to go extra early so that I could begin my first day of The Sunshine Project.
My very sweet friend, Lindsey, sent me a wonderful Starbucks gift card last week in an encouraging and cheery note. She may not have known it at the time, but it made my week. Which is when my first idea hit. Starbucks!
My plan was to run through the Starbucks drive-thru on my way downtown, and pick-up the tab of the person behind me. As soon as I ordered my coffee light frappucino I just started giggling. Seriously.
I pulled up to the window and I'm not sure if I was nervous or excited, but as soon as the barista opened the drive-thru window I blurted out something about "HI! Here's my card... person behind me..." *giggle*
Good grief. Could I be any more spastic?
He looked at me and kind of smiled as he ran my card. Then he handed me my drink and with a very genuine smile he looked me in the eyes and sincerely wished me a great day. How thoughtful.
I never saw that person behind me, but I hope they were surprised and excited. In fact, I hope they turn around and do something nice for someone else today.
My heart is full of joy already, so I can't wait to see what's to come!
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Join me in spreading that sunshine!
How beautiful!!! Now just imagine if ya'll "kept it going" at Starbucks! :) We have mainly Dunkin Donuts here in Massachusetts, but thank you for inspiring me to do the same to the person behind me tomorrow...Everyone needs a little sunshine in their life ;)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this, Megs! The fact that you are even starting this project is inspiring. I'm excited to follow it and see what happens next!
ReplyDeleteVery sweet idea! I'd love to have you share your experience with my readers via The Good Guest, if you're ever up for it.
ReplyDeleteDetails here:
http://thejoyfulsparrow.blogspot.com/p/good-guest.html
I LOOOOOOVE these kind of projects....can't wait to hear more!
ReplyDelete...and love your description of yourself as spastic :) I think the barista probably just thoughr "cute" :)
That is so amazing. It's so nice to see how one thing can cause such a domino affect. Reminds me of the movie Pay it Forward. This definitely has inspired me. happy Wednesday!
ReplyDeleteThis is always such a great thing. Something to think about: my husband used to work at Starbucks, and people used to buy the person behind them drinks.... but sometimes they would still treat him like garbage. Wouldn't it be nice if we did something unexpectedly kind for someone who works in the drive-thru?
ReplyDeleteI've ALWAYS wanted to pay for the person behind me for their coffee order! I have "Perform 5 random acts of kindness" on my 101 Things list and this post just inspired me to do more than 5! Good luck with the 30 day challenge..I have a feeling you'll do great!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE doing little things like that. It makes me feel SO good. I'll keep it going, and I hope that the person whose day you made this AM will pay it forward as well :)
ReplyDeleteI'm for the project as well, I believe that if you spread love and sunshine your life will be packed with blessings!!! Have a wonderful day and thanks for inspiring kindness, it's very well needed in this crazy world of our!!!
ReplyDeleteawesome! thanks for sharing! :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a GREAT, and fun thing to do! I'd be scared they ordered like 10 lattes, though ;) Can't wait to follow you in your journey!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Margaret
Love it! We actually bought groceries for a family a few weeks ago that had completely checked out all their items but didn't have enough money. They were wanting to return some of the items, but trying to decide what was a necessity. They had 3 small children with them and most of their groceries was baby food and formula. I don't think we did it as a random act of kindness at the time, it was more about providing the children with food. OMG it was heartbreaking but the family was so incredibly grateful, and when we left I was shaking. I couldn't believe I had just done that with everyone watching, but in the moment all I was thinking about was those poor children.
ReplyDeleteWe pray for that family nightly and its just a great reminder of how blessed we are!
I hope you enjoy your journey!
Elizabeth
Awesome!
ReplyDeleteThat is so great! I have that on my goals list as well- http://mydayzerochallenge.blogspot.com/p/my-list.html
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for the rest of your series Meg!
Just found your blog and SOO glad I did! I love this post. What a great idea to buy the coffee for the guy behind you - you've inspired me to jump on the bandwagon and do some good things for other people :)
ReplyDeleteThat is such a lovely story- it bought a smile to face!! So kind!
ReplyDeleteSuch a sweet story, and what a wonderful idea of a lovely project!
ReplyDelete