As I sat through my National Honor Society meeting, I was reminded of Catholic Schools Week and was assigned to perform little acts of kindness for teachers and staff. I thought about how these random acts of kindness should not just be a Catholic Schools Week activity; it should be a constant occurrence, something everyone can incorporate into daily life.

Sometimes, it’s the little things in life that matter the most. Lately, I have tried to take the little things into account, because, believe or not, the little things can have a huge impact. I have drawn my inspiration from the Bible verse, James 2:14: “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him?”

In the spiritual environment of Mercy, I constantly witness the girls around me giving back in large, amazing ways. Girls start their own charities or go on a large mission trip. I am inspired by these girls and their immense love for God and others. In fact, sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough for the world compared to my amazing peers. I realized, however, that it is possible to change the world just by tweaking tiny things in my life everyday.

I think a lot of times people (including myself) overthink, “doing the right thing.” Many people assume that they can only be a good person by performing large, elaborate works. The reality is, however, not everyone can afford to go on mission trips to different countries. Some people may be afraid to volunteer at charities or organizations, or may simply be too busy. One thing everyone can do, though, is spread kindness daily.

Small gestures in life, whether helping pick up someone’s spilled homework papers, smiling to someone you pass, or helping another student with her homework, build upon each other, spreading and serving as an inspiration for others to do the same. For example, if your friend is having a rough day, you can listen and share positive words of advice and a hug. When the girl in front of you in the cafeteria line is short two dollars for her hot lunch, you can offer to cover her. These small acts are more impactful than one may think. Not only do these acts help people, but they will help your character as well, thus building upon your relationship with God. It’s funny because as you start setting this good example of tiny acts of kindness daily, you’ll probably begin a positive trend. Other people may start incorporating these acts into their lives, as well, creating a domino effect.

In life, sometimes, it’s hard to look past the big things in life. However, if you can get past the big things and start to notice the little things, you’ll be surprised how impactful you can be on others.