Micro-Acts, Macro-Impact

I have one son, now an adult, but I often think back to a particular day when he was in preschool and it was our turn to bring class snacks. My husband was in law school and working part-time, while I worked full-time and managed solo parenting about 80% of the time so my spouse could study and work toward a better future for us. As you can imagine, life felt stressful.

I woke my son, we dressed quickly, and rushed to a nearby grocery store. Then we hurried to preschool, where he cried, “I don’t want to go!” My hands were full, my son was still upset, and despite my efforts, I was running late for work. As I struggled up the walkway to the school entrance, a teacher appeared.

As I handed off the snacks, my son’s tears stopped and he ran to join his friends. Suddenly, it was my turn to tear up. “I’m so sorry we’re late,” I said. “I had to pick up the snacks this morning, he wouldn’t stop crying, and now I’m running behind…” The teacher stopped me. “It’s okay. We’re all mothers here. We understand. Don’t worry—just take a deep breath and have a good day. Everything is fine here.”

Her words softened everything for me—not just that day, but in the days that followed. The teacher’s kindness reminded me I wasn’t alone, and that other moms weren’t judging me; they were offering grace, especially when I felt like I was failing.

February can feel cold and isolating for many. What can you do to warm someone’s heart this month? Send an e-card, a text, have coffee with a friend you are overdue for a visit with, check in with a neighbor, or make a batch of soup to share with someone who’s busy and could use a hand with dinner. Whatever you choose, remember that even the smallest "micro-act" of kindness can have a “macro-impact” on those around you.

I would love to hear about your micro-acts on social media. Follow us, share your stories, and use #CultivateKindness.

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