November 30, 1995

Heartwarming Acts of Kindness Illuminate the Santa Ana, California Community

By Vanessa Mahler

In a world often overshadowed by the hustle and bustle of daily life. The news is filled with violent crimes and horrific things happening in this city, this story is not like that. It’s the small act of kindness that has the power to bring the community together and illuminate the spirit of humility. These heartwarming stories emerging in our community showcase the compassion that resides in us all.

At Café Cito, a simple “Pay it forward” chain has sparked a wave of positivity in the city. What started with a young man buying coffee and muffin for the elderly woman behind him has turned into a week-long phenomenon that has yet to stop, with countless people participating in this selfless act. The smiles on the faces of those who have received such kindness speak volumes about the joy being kind to one another achieves.

Down the street, a bunch of children have taken it upon themselves to cheer up the elderly who live in all the nursing homes here in Santa Ana. The elderly are all smiles as children give them drawings, sing songs to them, bring them food from home, or give them stuffed animals. Seeing the joy on the faces of the elderly brightens the children’s faces. The kindness shown here speaks volumes about how a smile can brighten someone’s day.

Let’s continue to pay it forward and be kind to each other, continuing this positive wave into next week. How can you pay it forward to someone today?

(Author note: I’ve never written a newspaper article as a story before, please let me know if I did it right or if you have any tips. Def looking for feedback on this. I also used - a real place in Santa Ana, CA. I’m not sure if that’s okay or not).