I have a strong belief that kindness and consideration are among the most important human traits. It does not take much work to smile and say a simple "thank you", and yet, it can have a positive effect on someone else. To quote an old adage, "It takes more muscles to frown than to smile". In my experience, a simple act of kindness and consideration will always brighten up your surroundings. A little kindness and consideration can make your life a little nicer. The willingness to take the time and effort to be kind and considerate can brighten someone's day and can be personally fulfilling.
             One day a few weeks ago as I walked towards the door at the post office, I noticed an elderly woman carrying a large bundle of packages, walking towards the door from the opposite direction. I increased my pace to reach the door before her holding it open until she went through. She turned towards me and smiled a silent thank you and continued up to the counter. The gesture had not taken much effort on my part, and even though she did not verbally thank me, her smile was enough to let me know I had made an impact on her day.
             I was standing in line at the grocery store, when the sound of a woman's voice rose above the usual noises in the store. I noticed that the woman in line ahead of me had started to complain to the cashier. She said that the prices were far too high, and then scolded the cashier for scanning her items too slowly. It was obvious the cashier had been having a particularly rough day; she did not deserve the criticism anyway. The woman had a lot in her cart so she had the time to go on and on about the bad quality of service, as the cashier finally printed out and handed her the receipt. The woman snatched the receipt out of the cashier's hand while giving her a look of disgust as she wheeled her cart out of the store. The cashier slouched forward
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