
Motivation Monday
Life Vest Inside has had the very good fortune of finding writers willing to share their Kindness Stories/Articles with us. One of our special recurring writers is David Jablinowitz, Op-Ed Editor at Jerusalem Post, who is famous for his “bus stories.”
Gifts of the Heart
In the chill of December 2013, tragedy struck our family when a devastating fire consumed our home, leaving us with only the charred remnants of memories. Among the losses was a six-year-old boy’s world, his cherished possessions, and the Christmas presents that held the promise of holiday joy.
As the flames faded, and the reality of our situation settled in, an unexpected beacon of kindness emerged. A classmate of my grandson, whose birthday coincided with the season of giving, approached her parents with a heartfelt request. She wanted to give all her birthday gifts to the boy who had lost everything in the fire.
The parents, touched by their daughter’s selflessness, embraced the idea. The spirit of Christmas and compassion took center stage as they gathered the gifts and prepared to deliver them to our family. Little did we know that this act of kindness was about to create a magical moment amid the ashes of despair.
On Christmas morning, as we gathered amidst the challenges of rebuilding and healing, a knock echoed through the quiet remnants of our home. Opening the door revealed the classmate, her parents, and a bundle of beautifully wrapped gifts. The joy on my grandson’s face, as he unwrapped each present, was indescribable.
Amidst the unwrapping, the true magic unfolded. Each gift, carefully chosen by the kind-hearted classmate, reflected not just material generosity but the warmth of empathy and understanding. The act of giving transformed our Christmas into a celebration of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of goodwill.
Years have passed since that fateful December, but the memory of that act of kindness continues to warm our hearts. It’s a reminder that even in the face of loss and despair, the human capacity for generosity and compassion can shine through, bringing light to the darkest of times. The little girl’s selfless gesture became a beacon of hope, and her gifts, given from the heart, stitched a tapestry of love that remains a cherished part of our family’s Christmas story.
~ Debbie Sebastian
Finding yourself inspired to share your kindness story/article? Please submit it HERE – you can share via text, audio or video. Our editor will look it over! You may see your writing in a future issue of The Daily Kind!

Kindness Quote
“We don’t remember days … we remember moments.”
Cesare Pavese

Act of Kindness
Plan a spa day for you and your spouse, partner, or friend.

Positive Affirmation
I am resilient, and I overcome obstacles with ease.
