Note: This post was originally published on my author blog on 16 December 2015.

I was having a little trouble coming up with a topic for today’s post. I kept thinking, what in my life is going on that people could possibly be interested in? All I got was a big fat empty in my brain, which is saying something, as it’s usually chock full of ideas.

During a break from writing (The Vampire’s Favorite), I dropped by Facebook and found this heart-touching video shared by the Fairview, Tennessee, Police Department.

Now, wherever I turn these days, it seems folks are denigrating the South and Southerners. We’re racist. We’re backwoods hicks. We’re knee-jerk reactionaries with too many guns and not enough good sense.

Frankly, I get a little tired of those attitudes. I’ve met people from all around the world and trust me, Southerners are by far the best folks I’ve ever met, and certainly among the most kind and generous.

The proof is in this video. The Cross Point Community Church has what they call a Dollar Club. Every month, every single member is asked to give one dollar, just one. The collected money is normally used for a Random Act of Generosity bestowed on one family or individual out in the community.

This month, the church decided to commit RAoGs on a whole host of random strangers, and roped local businesses and the local police department into helping. They surprised Christmas tree shoppers, bought groceries and gas, hunted down requested toys for children and grandchildren, and made one woman’s Christmas with a very special gift. Don’t take my word for it. Watch the video. Only the hardest heart will walk away without shedding a tear or two.

The RAoGs don’t have to stop there. Why not spread your own brand of kindness around this holiday season? There are a ton of things anyone can do to brighten someone else’s day without spending a single dime. How often do you walk out of a grocery store behind a parent struggling to get both children and groceries safely into the car? Or into a restaurant behind an elderly couple who might appreciate having the door held open so they don’t have to hurry in? Taking a few moments to lend a helping hand costs nothing save a little time, and isn’t that worth giving up in exchange for lending help where it’s needed?

And while we’re at it, why not make this kindness part of our every day lives and carry the habit into the new year? Even a simple smile and “Hello, how are ya?” can go a long way toward making the world a better place for the giver and the receiver.

So smile, be merry, and above all, share a little kindness with the people around you during this, the season of good will.