By Maria Kimble, Contributing Writer

Imagine a place where everyone was looking out for each other, making it their main goal to put a smile on someone’s face. Then that person made a goal to pay it forward to the next person, and so on. This would make our campus a more happy place. With midterms quickly approaching us, it’s easy to fall into negativity. Kindness and love is a great antidote to any stress you could be experiencing; so why not spread the love? I personally encourage West Liberty student’s to send out positive vibes for National Random Acts of Kindness week.

No matter how small the deed may be any kindness can change anyone’s day. You could either go above and beyond or keep it simple. Next time hold the elevator for your fellow student who is late or offer to tutor someone who is struggling in your class. A small random act of kindness could change someone’s entire day.

Let’s be honest, we are all college students so naturally we are broke. The true beauty of Random Act of Kindess (RAOK) week is that it costs nothing to be a good person. A random act of kindness is as simple as using your manners, being thoughtful, giving out compliments, volunteering or even forgiving someone. This unofficial holiday is increasingly getting more attention over the years and rightfully so. We are all in this together; why not help each other?

Being kind is good for the human soul; it’s not just for likes on social media. On January 16 Ellen DeGeneres won a People’s Choice Award for Choice Humanitarian. In her speech she said, “It’s a little strange to actually get an award for being nice and generous and kind. Which is what we’re all supposed to do with one another. That’s the point of being a human.”

I believe she is right; you should help others to better our campus. Not only will you personally feel great but you could potentially change someone’s day for the better. “Awards are great, but really what makes me happy is making other people happy,” DeGeneres said. Take advice from Ellen DeGeneres and enrich your life by helping others.

Do not wait to be inspired, you should be the one inspiring. Change the mood of campus one smile at a time. Kindness is contagious and they are likely to pass it on making your campus a happier place to live. Even as something as simple as a smile can boost a wave of positivity.

Students are often stressed out this time of year with test and homework piling up; a little kindness can brighten up anyone’s day. Be the one who helps spread kindness West Liberty University by participating on this unofficial holiday.

Random Acts of Kindness week is celebrated every February. This year it will be celebrated on the week of February 15 – 21 with Random Acts of Kindness day on the 17.