Computer Allison

It was a nice, sunny Wednesday morning when I walked into the coffee shop, ready to spend a few hours writing. I walked up to the counter to order and the barista said, “Good morning! If you plan to have your usual today, it has already been taken care of.”

With that she handed me a gift card for exactly the amount of the cost of my drink. The outside read “Computer Allison.” 

Surprised, I smiled and even laughed at the thought of being recognized as “Computer Allison.” Apparently someone who frequents the coffee shop has noticed me there writing often enough that they knew my first name and added the descriptor computer to make sure their kind gesture went to the right person.

I have read and heard many stories of random acts of kindness, and they are heartwarming and make me smile. And being on the receiving end of this kind of randomness did more than bring a smile to my face: It made me feel noticed and special. Someone took time out of their day and $7 out of their pocket (my fancy drink isn’t cheap) to be intentional, do something kind, and add a bright spot to my day. It worked. Day made.

Whether it is sending a kind note to someone’s inbox, giving a flower, buying a drink, or even holding a door open, being intentional about our kindness means we, too, can be the bright spot in someone else’s day. This time of year, a lot is going on and the days and weeks can get away from us. That means it’s a great time of year to add a bright spot to someone’s day!

Random acts of kindness are just that . . . random. They aren’t necessarily planned, and they don’t take a lot of effort, but the response is generally always a smile and an uptick in the receiver’s day. So, to the kind person who bought my coffee that day, thank you. I will definitely pay it forward. And, I hope upon reading this, you might look to spread a little random kindness around as well.