I received Significance in Simple Moments by John Petz after hearing him speak at our school’s opening day before the start of the school year. As a paraeducator pursuing my degree in Special Education, his message about the impact we can have on others deeply resonated with me.

Inside the book was a card meant to be passed along—to continue the message and spread kindness from one person to another.

Kindness has always been something I try to live out in the everyday moments of my life. I see it in the care I give to my animals, the time and love I pour into my farm, and the lessons I hope to model for my son. I see it in the people I welcome, support, and embrace, and in the relationships I work to nurture with patience, compassion, and an open heart.

My work with children has shown me even more clearly that the smallest moments—a kind word, encouragement, patience, or simply making someone feel seen and valued—can leave a lasting impression. Whether I am caring for an animal, helping a child, raising my son, or offering comfort and connection to someone in my life, I believe that love and kindness are found in the simple things we choose to do each day.

So I’m passing this card on with the hope that it finds someone who needs a little encouragement, and that they will carry its message forward in their own way.

Sometimes, changing a life begins with something very simple: being kind.