By Cheryl Mattox Berry
When was the last time you performed a random act of kindness? You know, doing something nice for someone just because it was the right thing to do. When we’re in a hurry, we aren’t always courteous to people around us. It doesn’t take but a couple of seconds to be polite and make someone’s day a little easier. It’s the little things that count. Here are a few acts of kindness:
- Giving up your seat on the train to an elderly person or anyone who looks like they’ve had a rough day.
- Letting a mom with a wailing child skip the line at the grocery store.
- Holding the door for the person entering a building behind you.
- Letting another driver change lanes.
- Obeying signs that say “No Cellphones Allowed.”
Genericans on the Rise
On a recent trip to the mall, I noticed that all the teen girls – black, white and Hispanic – dressed the same. Their uniform: mermaid hair, short shorts and smoky eyes. They looked like they belonged to a cult. What happened to individuality? Be the first in your circle to change things up. Get a new hairstyle, try a different shade of eyeshadow, blush and lipcolor, wear a sundress, just do something different, puh-leeze.
Speak Up
Every now and then, you have to tag along with your parents to visit their friends. You don’t have to sit mute on the sofa or text under the dinner table. It’s okay to join the conversation, just don’t monopolize it. For example, if the family friend has interesting art, you might ask questions about the pieces. Collectors love to share stories about when and where they bought a particular item. You just might learn a thing or two.
HPV Vaccination
Have you received the vaccine yet? The HPV vaccine prevents human papillomavirus that causes most cervical cancers. It’s given in three shots over six months. Females should get it before they become sexually active and exposed to HPV, but sexually active young women can still derive some benefit. HPV infection is common in people in their late teens and early 20s. There are two vaccines. Gardasil is recommended for females and males ages 9 to 26. Cervarix is for females ages 9 to 25. Take charge of your health.
Making the Case
So, you want a few new things for the summer. Mom isn’t convinced that you need any more clothes because your closet is overflowing. Here’s what you do to convince her: Clean out the closet. Create three piles – donate, toss and keep. Pack the items for charity in a plastic garbage bag. Fold and hang the clothes you’re keeping. Make a list of pieces you want. Make sure you can mix and match them. Now, invite mom to your room and explain to her that you really don’t have as many clothes as she thinks because some were too small or worn. Show her the list and ask her how many pieces can you buy. She’ll be impressed that you’re so organized and brought calm to the chaos in your closet. Happy shopping!