The presence of God in everyday life: I was just one of millions of poor kids when I was growing up. I was insignificant to everyone but to myself.

My cash-starved mom used to send me to birthday parties with no present just so I could get something to eat. I definitely got to a point where I understood and was embarrassed as hell.

In fifth grade, my friend’s mom invited me to sleep over the night before the actual birthday party. On the morning of the birthday when her daughter was in the shower, the mom laid out the toys that she had bought her daughter for her birthday. Then, she let me pick one to wrap and put my name on.

I’m 37 now. I am still grateful to that mom. That one act made such an impact on me. Always be kind.

If you see someone falling behind, walk beside them. If someone is being ignored, find a way to include them. If someone has been knocked down, lift them up. Always remind people of their worth. Be who you needed when you were going through hard times. Just one small act of kindness could mean the world to someone. ~  Sherry Vonderhaar-Adair