Each Kindness

Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson

"This is what kindness does, 
Each little thing we do goes out, like a ripple, into the world." 

What a profound story about spreading (or not spreading) kindness.  Maya is a new student, new to a school filled with students who are not willing to welcome her in.  Chloe and her classmates turn down Maya's countless attempts to play, to initiate conversation, and to become friends. Eventually, Maya does not show up to school. Ever again.  Meanwhile, Ms. Albert, the teacher, holds a lesson on how kindness can spread like the ripples in water.  This lesson on kindness has a huge impact on Chloe.  She reflects, and reflects, and reflects some more.  Chloe comes to realize that she has so many things she wishes to do differently with Maya: things she would have said differently and ways she would have handled the relationship differently.  In the end, Chloe does not have a chance to mend her relationship with Maya, or to take advantage of a missed opportunity at friendship.  Maya never returns to school.  However, the last scene of the book shows Chloe reflecting on how "the chance of a kindness with Maya became more and more forever gone." So, is it sad that Chloe misses an opportunity? Or will Chloe take this lesson and apply to all future relationships?

I love this story because it reminds us just how powerful simple gestures be. A small gesture can hurt someone's feelings, or build someoe up to feel better about themselves. I think .. One part I really love is ... 

Jacqueline Woodson has become one of my favorite authors of all time. I recently read her latest book, Brown Girl Dreaming, and was blown away by her ability to say so much without saying much at all. Her ability to reveal bits of history that deserve to be told, while also sharing personal stories is a true gift. 
Accolades for Brown Girl Dreaming: 
NPR article
New York Times article

Please do yourself a favor and READ THIS BOOK. It will make you a better person.