When the idea to collab with The Human Worth Project surfaced, I had a million questions on my mind. Does everyone know what a RAK is? Are we able to RAK without exhausting our savings? Do RAK's always have to be given to a stranger? The list goes on and on. So I want to start with the basics before I go a little deeper, because I'm guessing I'm not the only one who's thought of these questions before.
First off, RAK stands for "Random Act of Kindness" this abbreviation will definitely be used a lot in this blog, partly because of my laziness, and partly because I like the ring to it. I will also use it as both a noun and a verb. Such as I just RAK'd that girl, or I received a RAK the other day. A Random Act of Kindness can be done anytime, anywhere. It can be done for your spouse, for your best friend, for the stranger behind you in the drive through lane, or for that social media follower that peeked your interest. Now that we've got all of that RAK jargon out of the way, I need to tell you that Chelsea (my friend over at The Human Worth Project), and I are working hard on compiling a list of ideas for those of you who are interested in RAKs but are unsure of how or where to start. This list will be budget minded so that any and everyone can RAK! Keep coming back, because we've got some really great ideas up our sleeve.
Now, let's dive a little deeper shall we?
I want to clarify something for those of us considering RAKs. This is a lifestyle. It is my belief that RAKing is not something that we pre-plan or arrange. Sure it can definitely be that. But what it truly is, is jumping on the opportunity when it presents itself. The lifestyle of RAKing means listening to those around you, seeing a need, and if you have the means, filling it. There is a selflessness to RAKing that is so beautiful. Chelsea, talks about this idea of selflessness on her blog and does such a wonderful job.
What I really want to try and hit home here is the idea that RAKs happen on the spot. The lifestyle of RAKing requires that we examine what's going on around us, listen to our fellow human, recognize needs, be observant enough, outside of yourself enough, to see the world around you. It requires going into the coffee shop and noticing someone who's there alone. It requires driving down the road and seeing someone's car on the side of the road with it's hood up. It requires realizing that the person behind you in McDonalds who's honking and being a complete jerk, is probably having a bad day. It's seeing your world, and seeing your fellow humans.
Second, it's acting. This is where I want to stress that RAKing does not have to extravagant. It does not mean we go out and purchase a new car for somebody. It does not mean that we go on a shopping spree and create this elaborate gift basket or bouquet. RAKing is just as beautiful and just as impacting if it's kept small. It's buying a coffee for that frazzled new mom with a crying child in her lap at the coffee shop. It's stopping and seeing if that person on the side of road needs a jump. It's paying for the guy behind you and leaving the message "I hope your day gets better". It's giving a little to your fellow human. You notice your co-worker is struggling with something you're pretty awesome at? It's taking time out of your lunch for a little tutoring. You've read, and have a copy of a book that someone is dying to read? It's lending them your copy.
Now, let me clarify something else. RAK'ing can definitely be BIG. If you have the means and the desire to largely bless someone, then do it! Are you a crafty person that loves creating get well soon baskets? Do it! Use your gifts, your talents, and what you love to do to bless others. Not everything requires money, but everything requires time. Which is what RAK'ing boils down too.
Taking the time to notice, and taking the time to care.
I encourage you to go check out Chelsea's blog at
http://thehumanworthproject.blogspot.com.
Until next time,
Aubrey
