GOOD Idea is a regular feature for Critically Acclaimed that focuses on service projects and positive ways to impact the world around you. Read more about it here.

Earlier this week, I found this fantastic article about an Act of Kindness Day event created at New Mexico State University in honor of a student there who passed away late last year. Emily Lein was 19-years-old, very enthusiastic, kind, compassionate, and living with autism in college. She was apparently very active on the college campus and supported as many sporting events and programs as she could. The event was created to honor Emily’s life and to leave a legacy of her kindness that she provided to others on the campus. Her freshman year suitemate Madison Marritt said of Emily, “She didn’t care how people acted, she just knew that people needed kindness. She knew they needed to be helped, and she wanted to help them.” What an incredible woman!

The Aggie Day of Kindness was advertised throughout January and February, with the official day taking place yesterday, February 9, 2012. Participants were encouraged to perform acts of kindness to others all day in honor of Emily, and to share about their experiences with the day on facebook.

I am inspired by the beautiful way the university decided to honor Emily, and by the incredible impact her life has left on their university community. The story also brings to light the importance of giving everyone a fair shot and treating each person you meet with dignity and respect - just as it appears that Emily did - and unfortunately in contrast to the way people frequently respond to people who live with physical, mental, developmental, and emotional disabilities.

Wouldn’t it be great if every campus honored Emily through an Act of Kindness Day? Perhaps we could make that happen. :) 

(Source: nmsu.edu)

I love this new blog I found via a facebook wall post on The Ripples Project - another thing I love!! :) Y’all should check out the blog, as well as check out Ripples. Now.

 dailypeptalk:

Pep Talk: It’s time to stop thinking about drama from yesterday. You’ve rehashed it enough and there is nothing more to see there. This moment, right now, has the potential to make you happier than you can imagine and, to get here, the cost of admission is your attention, which must be payed. Exit the past, enter the present, and breathe in the world as it is.
Today remind yourself: I’m paying attention.

I visited a church today with Janelle, and the sermon was about Choosing Joy. The youth pastor was preaching this Sunday, and he shared this video. It is hysterical, and I couldn’t stop laughing! I think I will try starting my days this week like Jessica demonstrates in the video, and see if it changes my week. You should, too!

“I like my job! I like my roommate! I like my apartment! I like my tie! I like anything!”