Danita's Dish: Keep the spirit of kindness going throughout the year

CLEVELAND - Today I had a conversation with a man who said something very powerful to me. "The human spirit is alive and well." 

He was speaking of the spirit of kindness, the spirit of helping those who are less fortunate than yourself.

During the holiday season, we are bombarded with the message of materialism. Tangible items appearing to mean more than those things you can't wrap and put under a Christmas tree.

This is also the time of year where you hear more about volunteerism, clothes for the homeless, toys for needy children and foodbanks for families in need. But what about when the season is over? Those same needs still continue but we don't see the throngs of people volunteering their time and efforts to help.

Yes, the human spirit is alive and well. The question is, are you tapping into that spirit to make a difference in someone's life? Do we tend to only do it when it's trendy or seasonal? The challenge is to keep the spirit of kindness and good cheer going all year long. It's not an easy thing to do, but it is possible.

It requires all of us to have a daily commitment to good. Do something or say something positive that will provoke a good feeling or a sense of well-being among people. There's a possibility that it could create a chain reaction and inspire those around you to do the same.

The human spirit is alive and well. So let's not embrace anything that doesn't enhance the wonderful energy that being alive brings. Then, share it with those you love and sprinkle it over those you come in contact with. A kind word or a gesture goes a long way. How about just giving a person a smile when you say hello. It doesn't have to be grand, but it should always be genuine.

So, today I was reminded that there are still people in this world who care about their neighbor, who want to do more than just talk about changing the world for the better. They are actually doing their part to make it happen. What a refreshing thought.

I'm ready to tap into that spirit. How about you?