kindness

Residents of Adikpo in Kwande Local Government were left astonished when a young entrepreneur showcased extraordinary empathy. The Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) announced job openings and scheduled a Computer-Based Test (CBT) as part of a new testing initiative. Recognizing that many of his fellow community members were not well-versed in computer skills at the time, Mr. Ityohon Barnabas, the Director of Divine World ICT Centre in Adikpo, took it upon himself to offer a free crash course for all local residents. His initiative aimed to prepare them for the upcoming SUBEB CBT. In response to his generous offer, numerous applicants expressed their heartfelt gratitude, stating that Mr. Barnabas’s support had been instrumental in helping them navigate the interview process successfully. While this act of kindness may not have been the most financially prudent move for an entrepreneur, it stands as a significant victory for compassion and serves as an inspiring reminder for all of us to leverage our resources and positions to uplift others. In the spirit of kindness and togetherness, everyone achieves more.

In an inspiring tale of compassion and community, the life of 20-year-old Shylow Murphy underwent a remarkable transformation in just five days, thanks to the kindness of strangers. Once a homeless musician relying on tips while busking on a street corner in Norwich, England, Murphy’s circumstances changed dramatically when he received unexpected support from a caring individual. Abbi Claxton, a web analyst, couldn’t ignore Murphy as she passed by him performing in worn-out jogging pants. Instead of simply walking on, she chose to engage with him. After offering him a new pair of pants and some food, Claxton struck up a conversation that would change both their lives. Murphy shared his story of how he had fallen into homelessness, and Claxton recognized the potential for change. She described her motivation to help him as stemming from the realization that he could easily be “anyone’s son or brother or friend,” emphasizing the shared humanity that connects us all. Determined to assist Murphy in rebuilding his life, Claxton launched a Facebook campaign that quickly gained traction, raising $1,200. This funding secured him a place to live and also paved the way for a job interview and even included a salon makeover where he received donated business attire. The whirlwind of support culminated in Murphy landing a job as a street fundraiser, allowing him to channel his experiences into helping others rather than seeking handouts for himself. Reflecting on his newfound situation, Murphy expressed immense gratitude: “I’m just so happy now. I’ve broken out of my shell again. I’m out here again and can be myself.” He no longer carries the heavy burden of homelessness—literally and figuratively—feeling liberated from the struggles that once defined his existence.

What would you do if you encountered a mother and her two children sitting in a police station, lacking both a home and hope? You could follow the example of Deputy Brian Bussell, who took it upon himself to cover their hotel expenses and buy them clothes. On a September morning, Deputy Bussell, a 25-year veteran of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, noticed the family dozing in the chairs of the station. “I knew our visitation was at 9 AM and assumed they were here to visit someone in jail,” he recounted. However, when he returned later and saw the children asleep while their mother remained awake, he approached her to offer help. The mother explained that they had recently been evicted and were waiting for housing assistance. After discovering that local shelters were full, Deputy Bussell acted quickly. He used his own funds to book a ten-day hotel stay in Oxford, Ohio, and took the family shopping at Walmart for clothes. When the boys requested shoes, he enthusiastically agreed. “He went to Walmart after they finished shopping and paid for everything,” said Sheriff Richard K. Jones in a Facebook post. “This is a true act of kindness. He didn’t mention his good deed at work; we only found out when the lady shared a picture with him on Facebook. It was shared so widely that I received calls about my deputy’s generous gesture.” Let us continue to spread kindness without reason.

In a time when many are grappling with the harsh realities of economic downturns and widespread hardship, one might expect a savvy entrepreneur to focus solely on profit-making strategies to survive. However, Tersoo Akaajime, a young and innovative fashion designer from Benue, chose a different path—one that exemplifies compassion and social responsibility. Moved by the dire circumstances faced by those residing in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Makurdi, Mr. Akaajime decided to take action that would uplift spirits and also provide tangible support. He embarked on an inspiring initiative to create beautiful dresses from linen for the women and children in these camps, recognizing that even in the face of adversity, dignity and self-expression should not be compromised. To amplify the impact of his outreach, Tersoo rallied several of his fellow designers and artisans. Together, they organized a visit to the IDP camp, where they set up a temporary workshop. The atmosphere was filled with creativity and camaraderie as they worked side by side with the residents, transforming simple linens into vibrant garments. This collaborative effort sure provided much-needed clothing especially now that the rains are here and the weather cold and humid. The initiative taken by Mr. Akaajime is an indicator that kindness can flourish even in the most challenging times. It sends a powerful message: rather than exploiting the misfortunes of others for personal gain, we should strive to make positive contributions that uplift our communities. In doing so, Tersoo Akaajime has helped those in need and also inspired others to consider how they can use their talents for the greater good. We can change the world if we’re serious about changing ourselves. One kind act at a time and the world gets better.

In Monroe County, Georgia, a unique initiative by the sheriff’s department has turned routine traffic stops into heartwarming encounters. Deputy Timothy Campfield took to the roads with a stack of $100 bills instead of citations, surprising drivers pulled over for minor violations. When he stopped one man, he encouraged him to “use it maximally.” Another driver, visibly anxious about receiving a ticket, was overwhelmed with gratitude and asked to hug the deputy after he handed her the cash. One woman, moved to tears, expressed that the unexpected gift would allow her to buy Christmas presents for her grandchildren. This unconventional approach greatly alleviated the stress of potential fines and also fostered a sense of community and goodwill among motorists. Corrections when done out of love and spiced up with kindness, tend to produce highly positive results. Let’s douse our every activity in kindness

A worker from Benue Links demonstrated remarkable integrity and kindness during a recent incident involving a delivery of spicy Kulikuli snacks. The individual, who had ordered the snacks from Jos, relied on their mother, a devoted supporter, to help procure them despite her busy schedule and health challenges. After processing everything together to ease the workload, she packaged the items and sent them off, with expectations that they would arrive promptly. However, when the delivery arrived in Makurdi, confusion ensued. The driver offloaded the items without notifying the recipient’s uncle, whose contact number was on the package. As time passed without any communication from either the driver or the uncle, the individual grew increasingly anxious about the whereabouts of their goods. Upon visiting Benue Links to inquire about the delivery, they discovered that neither the uncle nor the driver was aware of the situation. The following morning brought further complications as attempts to reach the uncle were unsuccessful. Eventually, it was revealed that a woman who had taken her own load might have inadvertently taken the missing sack as well. This left the individual feeling worried and frustrated as they left the park without their goods. Fortunately, later that day, a good Samaritan named Mr. Ternenge found the sack where Jos vehicles load and kept it safe until it could be returned. Upon learning about the situation at work, he ensured that the sack was returned to its rightful owner. The individual expressed immense gratitude for Mr. Ternenge’s honesty and kindness during such challenging times, highlighting the importance of integrity in their community. When we choose to do the right thing even when no one is watching, we’re painting the aura of kindness in living colours.

Nichole Sedgebeer found herself stranded after missing the last train home from London, with the station locked and no safe place to wait until morning. In her moment of distress, a homeless man named Mark approached her, noticing her upset demeanor and offering assistance. Mark guided Nichole to a nearby all-night coffee shop, ensuring she didn’t have to navigate the dark streets alone. After making sure she was safe, he promised to return the next morning to escort her back to the station for the first train. True to his word, Mark arrived the next morning, running to meet Nichole after his bus was delayed. She was taken aback by his dedication and kindness. Reflecting on the experience, Nichole shared on Facebook, “This man who I probably would have avoided eye contact with if he asked for spare change completely changed such a negative event into the most eye-opening event in my life.” Impressed by Mark’s selflessness, Nichole set up a crowdfunding campaign to help him secure housing. The initiative has raised over £10,000, demonstrating the impact of Mark’s actions on her life and the generosity of others who were inspired by his kindness. “Mark, you are one special man,” she concluded in her heartfelt tribute.