Random Acts of Kindness Come to South Orange

Local residents are being kind, deliberately. Whether New Year's resolution, or, for some, a tribute to the Newtown, CT victims, South Orange locals are performing "random acts of kindness."

"My newspapers have brought to the porch daily," reports one Clark Street resident. "It may not seem like much, but it's a big help."  She has an idea of who might be bringing the newspaper from her front walk to the house, but she's not certain. "It's very nice," she says.

Others report finding their parking meters fed, doors held open, and even finding sweets and treats waiting for them in mailboxes.

Why the random acts?

A self-described "random actor" explains. "I thought about the holiday craziness and how people get very stressed," she says. "I decided to make a deliberate choice to be extra-friendly, to grab opportunities to help. It's kind of addictive, and I'm planning to make it my mission this year."

Choosing not to be identified is part of the fun, she explains. "It's like being a Girl Scout again, when we read about little brownies who snuck around and did helpful things. I'm an undercover do-gooder, at least for a few minutes each day."

Have you experienced any random acts? Have you performed any yourself? Tell us in the comments!