Have you ever thought about the difference you can make in the world? As an individual you can accomplish more than you realize. With the Thanksgiving holiday coming and Christmas to soon follow, we gather together with our families and share good food, memories with gratitude and love. We can also teach our children to consider those around them and serve during the holidays.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, “As we lose ourselves in the service of others, we discover our own lives and our own happiness.”
I would like to introduce you to a wonderful book titled, Pay It Forward Kids Small Acts, Big Change. Compiled and written by Nancy Runstedler.
This book is a combination of 14 thought-provoking, motivational stories of 14 ordinary kids who do extraordinary things. Each of these kids have set out to “Pay It Forward” with amazing results.
You’ll be touched by their stories of kindness, how they think outside themselves and make the world around them a better place. This book will be an inspiration to you and possibly give you ideas as to how you or your family can Pay It Forward in you own neighborhood, city or beyond.
In her acknowledgments Runstedler said, “Even the smallest acts of kindness can send many ripples out, creating a chain reaction in which the end result is much bigger than it started.”
Meet Noah Lamaide, who at age 9, set out to make some big changes. According to his story, Noah was “never a stranger to kindness.” On his 9th birthday he invited his friends over for a party, but instead of each friend bringing a gift they all brought items to donate to the local food pantry. In the end they were able to fill eight carts of food, clothing, toys etc.
In her writing author Nancy Runstedler says, “The first initiative was such a success that Noah decided to accept his mother’s challenge and continue doing one community-service project each year.” And so, began Noah’s journey to Pay It Forward.
There are 13 other stories of courageous youth who take a stand to help others in need and do so willingly and happily. Pick up a copy of this book at your local library today and be inspired by this rising generation of kids who Pay It Forward.
