Sweet Home Ellabama : Be One of a KIND: Week 43

"Be ye kind one to another." Great quote, guess where it's found?! The Bible!! The Apostle Paul wrote these inspired words to the Ephesians in the New Testament (Eph 4:32). I think we should all listen to Paul.

We are often so caught up in the affairs of our busy lives that we forget to look outside ourselves. But when we do, hearts are changed. Sister Sheffer and I experienced this very alteration this week.

We were biking in the insane humidity, so exhausted and deadly dehydrated. We saw a man getting out of his car and tried to strike up conversation, he wasn't interested. He went into his apartment and came out a minute later to get something he had forgotten. I simply asked if he had any water. He curiously looked at us, went back into his apartment, and came outside with 2 ice cold water bottles. He handed them to us with a friendly smile and began to open up. He made a complete 180 degree turn from when we first met him. Because he gave a simple act of kindness, both of us were touched and changed for the better. It was so beautiful!

This was only one of the countless acts of kindness I was a recipient of this week. I turned 20, and love was flowing from every direction! Thoughtful packages, sincere words, and genuine love were sent my way. I really can't express how grateful I am to each of you. THANK YOU. The 18 year old Elders fresh from high school baked me a cake with birthday candles, Sister Sheffer surprised me with a southern breakfast and friends, members of the church who don't even know me baked treats and sweets and showed their love. Y'all from home sent goodies galore. Again, thank you.

I know that simple acts of kindness can change hearts. They exemplify pure love, which the Savior gives us all. Because of everyones kindness, my 20th birthday was one to never forget. It was truly one of a kind.

I love y'all so much! Go be kind!

xoxox,

Sister Ella Rae Madsen