Throughout human history, people have been known to help others through selfless acts of compassion and generosity. Research shows that giving to others, combines chemicals in your brain and gives a euphoric high that relieves stress, lowers blood pressure, and helps with depression and anxiety. Here are just a few stories, that may inspire you to notice or help someone who looks like they could use some help. Let’s all pay it forward.

A high school senior was being banned from walking in his graduation ceremony because he didn’t follow the school shoe policy. In a panic he told one of his teachers that the worn tennis shoes he had on were the only ones he owned. The teacher immediately took off his shoes and gave them to the student. Despite the shoes being two sizes too big, the boy got to walk with his graduating class that day. He never forgot the teacher’s generosity. 

On my way to a meeting one morning I pulled though the drive through to get a coffee. I decided to pay for the car behind me. The person in the car only ordered coffee, too. I thought to myself, I got off cheap. When I got to the meeting a woman I knew came up to me and thanked me for buying her coffee. “That was you?” I said laughing. Next time she told me she would order a whole meal!

If you have a “Random Acts of Kindness” story to share, please send to [email protected].