With the holidays so close at hand, the thing that’s at the forefront of most people’s minds is doing good deeds. Who knows where the attitude comes from? Maybe we are still slightly aware that there really is a Santa Clause and he is really watching. Maybe it’s the generosity of the three Kings that causes such generosity in ourselves. Whatever the reason, this is the season that we think the most to do good deeds.
Recently, a phenomenon called “Pay it Forward” has emerged. Paying it forward is a concept that was first brought to light by writer Catherine Ryan Hyde in her book “Pay It Forward” (later made into a movie of the same name).
The idea of paying it forward is that you pay three other people for the one good deed you have had done for you. So, let’s say that you get a flat tire and someone stops to help you out. They expect no payment and simply move on. It’s up to you to repay their kindness by paying it forward. You will repay the person who helped you by helping three other people who need your help.
Paying it forward is a great concept, especially now during the holiday season. Do you know someone who needs some help? Then help them. Then ask them to pay it forward. In other words, ask them to help three other people.
The asking people to pay it forward is what separates this kindness movement from others is the fact that you ask people to do something in return for your kindness. The “Random Acts of Kindness” movement was aimed at doing anonymous good acts. A great idea and paying it forward takes that idea one step further.
Paying it forward does not mean that you have to spend money. While monetary donations can be impressive, the idea of paying it forward is more about actions than checkbooks. It’s about helping the woman at the grocery store get her kids ands two carts of groceries out to the car. It’s about helping the man up the street shovel his driveway. It’s about helping people in real ways, not throwing money after problems.
And when you have completed one of your three good deeds and the person you have just helped asks how they can ever repay you, smile, shrug and simply say, “Pay it forward. Help the next three people you meet who need help and that will be payment enough.”