I think the writer Henry James said it best:

“Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind.”

Kindness. Plain old just being nice to other people. It is so underrated in today’s society. We often run around envisioning all the grandiose ways we can serve and change the world—often ignoring the very simple and meaningful gestures we can do to those around us.

Ending poverty or world hunger are beautiful goals, and we should strive for them. But a simple hello to a stranger, or holding the door for someone, or smiling at the overworked, underpaid cashier might have more global impact than we might think.

Plus it just feels good to do good. If you want to be happy, be kind.

To your good fortune!