"Because that's what kindness is. It's not doing something for someone else because they can't, but because you can." "Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end" - Andrew Iskander & Scott Adams 

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in our own worries and concerns, often overlooking the simple acts of kindness that can make a world of difference. A chance encounter at one of Ghana's busy markets in Accra recently reminded me of the incredible power of kindness, the joy it brings to others and how it also enhances our own mental well-being. 

Amid the chaos of "the rush hour" as we call it (the early hours of the morning when we leave for work and the late hours of the evening when we're rushing to get home), I noticed two elderly women (between 60 & 70 years) struggling to carry an overwhelming load of baggage (I assumed they were returning from a trip and had bought some foodstuffs). It was a poignant scene - two individuals caught in the frenzy of daily life, grappling with their belongings, and trying to keep up with the relentless pace of the world. The weight of their burdens was both physical and emotional, as they tried to navigate the rush to get home after a long day's work. 

As I observed them from a distance, I couldn't help but empathize with their situation. It was a stark reminder of the challenges that many face, particularly in a fast-paced urban environment. With no second thoughts, I decided to offer my assistance. I approached them and extended a helping hand, a gesture that would soon unveil the profound impact of a simple act of kindness. 

Together, we managed to board the next available bus, and the relief on the faces of those two women was evident. They expressed their gratitude with smiles, heartfelt thanks and blessings. It was a moment that touched my heart in ways I could not have anticipated. In that brief encounter, I was reminded of the incredible power of kindness and how it can create a ripple effect of positivity. 

What struck me most was not the gratitude they expressed to me, but the way this act of kindness transformed my own state of mind. You see, I had had a particularly stressful day, filled with the pressures of my professional life. Yet, in that instant when I offered help and saw the relief on their faces, all my stress seemed to melt away. It was as if I had won the most significant contract of my life or achieved some great personal milestone. 

This experience served as a poignant reminder that acts of kindness not only brighten someone else's day but also have a profound impact on our own mental well-being. It's no secret that practicing kindness and compassion towards others can reduce stress, boost our mood, and enhance our overall mental health. In a world that often seems cold and impersonal, these 'small' acts of humanity have the power to connect us on a deeper level. 

Gratitude, too, played a vital role in this story. The appreciation and blessings I received from those two women were a humbling reminder of the importance of recognizing the good in our lives. Gratitude is a positive emotion that, when cultivated, can significantly contribute to our mental well-being. It shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering a sense of contentment and happiness. 

The beautiful thing about kindness and gratitude is that they are contagious. When we extend a helping hand or express our thanks, it inspires others to do the same.  There's an Akan adage that says "Sɛ obi yɛ wo papa a, na w'ahaw wo" - to wit, if someone does you good, they burden you. 

This is because in actual fact, you receive the burden of being kind the next time to the same person or to someone else; and this creates a positive chain reaction that can transform the atmosphere around us, making the world a better place. 

In a world that can sometimes feel divided and stressed, let's not forget the incredible impact that kindness and gratitude can have, not only on others but on ourselves. Let's strive to be the reason someone smiles, to be the source of relief in a hectic world, and to be the one who carries the light of kindness in our hearts. 

So, as we go about our lives, let's remember that even the 'smallest' acts of kindness can make a world of difference, leading to a more compassionate and mentally healthier world for us all. 

Will you be kind to someone today???