Covid-19 Idea: Kindness Rocks

Jay Bell

Finding a way for a small act of kindness to touch a stranger.

With all the stresses of Covid-19, finding a message of support from a stranger can lift someone's spirits.

​Many people feel the heavy stress and negativity arising from the countless effects created by Covid-19, along with the inability for most people to have a broader impact. One way to make a difference is to focus more on the opportunities to positively affect even one person. 

The Kindness Rocks Project existed before this virus, but may be meaningful now as much as ever. Our family has been fortunate to find a few. We’ve been meandering along a beach and randomly discovered a rock with words on it that were general enough to apply to almost anyone, yet specific enough to feel like it’s the perfect positive message at a time when you needed it. We’ve passed these along to someone who would be touched, as a way to pay it forward.

Making a kindness rock is easy, and also an act of support and empathy. With kids, it's also an opportunity for discussion and growth.

This can be a really easy project. All you need is some rocks with a suitable surface to write on, some paint and pens that will survive the outdoors, and some empathy. It’s an art project with a touch of humanity that can capture people’s attention for a little while, and leave them thinking about how to lift someone else’s spirits.

The second part is to journey safely to a beach, river, park, or any other place where people will wander along and discover the rock. Look for that place that's easily found but that won't be quickly washed away or driven over, and make a wish for the person who finds it.