Last website update
December 19, 2008
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Michael J. Chase started The KindnessCenter with the vision of creating a more peaceful and kindhearted world. He is accomplishing this by inspiring kind behavior at school, work, and during all aspects of life. Through workshops and events, Michael teaches a unique approach to achieving both personal and global harmony called LivingKindness. This simple yet powerful philosophy, reveals the amazing benefits of adopting kindness as a way of life. In addition to inspirational programs, The KindnessCenter is dedicated to projects that celebrate the spirit of performing random acts of kindness. Our events such as 24 Hours of Kindness, 3000 Miles of Kindness, and Remembering Kindness, have received worldwide media coverage. We encourage you to be a part of these inspiring events, which have touched thousands of lives and sparked a kindness revolution.
In addition to it s founder, Michael J. Chase, The KindnessCenter has quickly grown into a large group of advocates for a better world. Local volunteers as well as people from all over the world have been instrumental in it s success. If you would like to receive news about future projects, please sign up for our E-newsletter. Each month, our LivingKindness newsletter reveals how kindness towards yourself, others, and the earth can change your life...and the world! Affectionately known as The Kindness Guy, Michael J. Chase began The KindnessCenter with the vision of creating a more peaceful and kindhearted world. After gaining both local and national media attention from his 24 Hours of Kindness event, Michael quickly became a sought after consultant and keynote speaker for schools and businesses.
In addition to speaking engagements, Michael continues to create kindness events, which have inspired thousands. Recently he traveled from California to Maine performing and documenting as many acts of kindness as possible. After sharing this journey on his website, Michael received support and letters from Canada, Ireland, Indonesia, and all over the United States from readers who were motivated to begin their own kindness revolution.
Before starting The KindnessCenter, Michael and his wife Cara, owned a successful photography studio for 16 years. As a professional photographer and lecturer, Michael s award-winning images have been displayed throughout the country.
Knowing that changing the world is not a one-person job; Michael has surrounded himself with numerous kindhearted volunteers and supporters, which have been instrumental in The KindnessCenter s success. Michael, along with his loving wife Cara and talented son Alex, currently live in southern Maine.
Michael s story...une 13-21, 2008 3000 Miles of Kindness It has been such a pleasure getting to know Michael Chase, from the Kindness Center in Biddeford.
When Michael first emailed Tim and me about coming on our show to promote his work and his desire to spread the message of the power of kindness, we agreed it would be cool to have him on. My reasoning was that throughout the last year, we ve done stories about random acts of kindness and how neat to have a local person who is spending their life to be kind .
Here is a man who closed down a lucrative photography business to undertake a mission of inspiring others to be kind to each other. What a beautiful and simple concept. To meet Michael is to be flooded by his generosity of spirit and his never-ending faith in the power of kindness. I am definitely a better person for having met Michael.
Radio Diva, Eva Matteson, of Coast 93.1
Hi Michael,
†
Just a note to let you know that your presentation today on LivingKindness was beyond what words can convey...let it suffice to say that the sustained, standing ovation you received from our staff††was†something that had NEVER happened before in an opening day keynote presentation here in our district. What moves me the most is knowing the difference your talk today will have on the lives of some of our neediest kids. Your humor, warmth, and skills as a speaker and performer (yes..performer!) brought†the nine elements of†kindness alive and made your message both powerful and memorable.†From the feedback today, you will be working with every school in our district, and†will, hopefully,†be next year's keynote speaker again.†††
†
Tom Sferes - Biddeford Middle School
"Mike, wow! Thank you so much for your incredible talk today for our LifePath Unlimited community. Extraordinary wisdom! You have truly impacted my life and I begin my livingkindness today. Thank you friend.
Patrick Combs - LifePath Unlimited
Thank you!
When you spoke to the staff†at our workshop, you said something that really struck a cord -† that there's a difference between being nice and being kind. I've always tried to be nice but you really made me stop and think - and being kind really is stepping it up a level - and that is what I now try to do.
So again, thank you so very much.
With deep gratitude,
- Jane G.
Michael!
†† I am a teacher in Biddeford and LOOOOOOVED your presentation on Wednesday! In fact, my team is planning on incorporating your Remembering Kindness into our fifth grade classrooms. What a great, great message! Thank you!
† - Lorna H.
Who would have thought that it could be so easy, so clear and so uplifting to take that first step on a journey that will last a lifetime! I attended the Living Kindness workshop and had no doubt that I would walk away with the tools to begin my journey. Michael not only believes what he teaches; he lives it. His unique approach motivates and inspires anyone of any age to begin their own acts of kindness in their own lives and beyond. Michael teaches with warmth, humor, sincerity and a whole bunch of love. As Michael so aptly puts it there is a difference in being kind and being nice . Take that first step; enroll in one of his workshops and see for yourself what living kindness can do for you!
- Mary S.
Michael,
What you've taught me in the short while that I've known you is that success comes in all shapes and sizes. And defining success has been something I've greatly struggled with in my life, but now I think I've finally got it. What's the truest, rawest form of success? KINDNESS. Thank you!
- Lance P.
...it brought tears to my eyes. If everyone shared this theory the world would be a better place.
Thank You!
- Nina
Oh my God! I am absolutely touched with the beautiful life's experience you shared with us. From now onwards this is always going to be an important part of my life.
- Alia
Your story touched me to the core and I feel quite overwhelmed. At a time where confusion seems to have taken over...where, what, how, but, no, yes, but...I can now see a door opening; maybe those questions are not real questions and actually have no answer because the only answer is kindness and the rest will follow.
I cry as I'm writing this because at last there is some light.
Thank you. With metta,
- Pascale
Dear Michael,
†
† My wife and I had the delightful opportunity to hear you this afternoon at the Performing Arts Center. I came away from the experience with all kinds of feelings and thoughts, many of which I cannot yet express....
†
†Among the many things that you shared, I was struck by your self-awareness and by your enormous courage. It is clear that you have done a lot of work on yourself and that you are embracing life in many wonderful ways. †Moreover, you have taken a huge leap of faith and you are on a new path that will lead you and others to places you ve never before dreamed. We have so much to be grateful for, and I very much appreciate the opportunity today to count my many blessings. †
† Thank you, thank you, thank you,
†
† - Don G.
†
My dear Michael
†
Today I discovered you and your inspiring Kindness Center. Here in Belfast, Northern Ireland as everywhere else on earth this message of kindness needs to be carried into the street.
†
This note of thanks is by way of encouraging you. I hope you (MUST) realize the powerful
effect of your witness of kindness and Hospitality, welcome for the stranger, the charisma which
I try to live by.
††
May God bless you and all the wonderful people who surround you, and when (not if ) you get to
Ireland I hope I will be among the first to know about it.
†
Love,
†
- Finnian Gallagher / Bro†
For being you, giving your heart and love freely. Teaching what is important in this life. Giving hope. Understanding. You have made it...
- Deb B.
Wow, Thank you Michael! Really inspirational and motivating. It sounds as though you have a "grateful heart". One that is filled with love and appreciation. I will ask more often..."Am I Being Kind?"
Thanks Michael.
Your California Friend
- Bob
Michael, It was so great! I loved it!!! Please let me know whenever you are speaking again. It's so inspiring!
- John G.
Thank you for sharing and reminding us all that happiness is really in realizing the connection we have with everything. We are not alone here.
- Stephanie
I just wanted to say thank you for giving me inspiration. I am now once a week going through a drive thru and paying for the order behind me. What a great feeling! At first it was weird because I was concerned what they may think but it gets easier every time. I have volunteered for many years but there is something magical about the random acts. You are an inspiration!
Susan S.
Thank you Michael for an awesome day of inspiration! I feel that you have touched many people. You reached countless souls who need to hear all about KINDNESS! I will remember and eternalize always the part your mission has impacted my broken heart and my journey
Nancy S.
We really enjoyed your workshop!†You did a great job!†It is such a simple concept, & hopefully it will spread like a wildfire.
Tammi R.
Wow this is so great and is a fantastic example of what we should be.
- Julia - The Encouragement Foundation, Australia
Words cannot express the impact you had on the students the other day.†They continued to talk about you long after you and your crew departed.†Some of the students asked if you could join us on their class trip in June, while others asked when you were going to become a teacher because you're "awesome." I thanked them for being so attentive and enthusiastic, and they started to ask whether or not we could do a similar project after vacation.† We are going to collaborate and find a way for our eighth graders to do their own "Random Acts of Kindness Day."† The students were thrilled to hear this and asked whether or not you would be able to join us.†I told them that once we ironed out the details, I would extend the invitation to you.† It amazes me how you were able to take a group of adolescents who are at a point in their lives when the focus is on me and allowed them the opportunity to develop a greater sense of awareness for others.† From the bottom of my heart, thank you for an incredible experience!† I hope you will visit us again soon :)
Jenessa C. - St. James school
Michael, I had a great time at the seminar! Thanks for the inspiration! I wish you much success.
Denise D.
Your workshop left me inspired to say the least. There s an energy about you that you can't deny is contagious. Not only do you make people laugh, but you also offer real tips on how we can live in a more kind way. I look forward to attending future workshops and would recommend "Living Kindness" workshops to all my friends and family.
Drops of Kindness
Start your own KindnessRevolution
Simple ways YOU can make a difference
in the lives of others...
"Select some people in your life who you feel need a special lift and send them a gift: flowers, tickets to a special event, or a gift certificate.
"Write a note to the supervisor of someone who has been particularly helpful, letting him or her know how the employee helped you.
"Stop for a person waiting to cross the street.
"Leave enough money in the vending machine for the next person to get a free treat.
"Do something kind for animals.
"Call or write to someone you haven t spoken to in a long time, just to say you re thinking about them.
"Purchase a copy of a book about kindness, read it, put your initials, city, and state on the inside, and pass it on.
"Call loved ones just to say I love you or to tell them what you appreciate about them.
"Create or donate floral arrangements for a senior center, nursing home, police station, hospital, or the homebound.
"Smile and say hello to someone you don t know.
"When you are waiting for service at the deli counter, trade ticket numbers with someone in a hurry.
"Put a flower on a neighbor s porch.
"Pick up litter.
"Help someone struggling with heavy bags.
"Offer to baby-sit for free to give a single parent an evening off.
"Call someone who has no family nearby and invite him or her to your home for a visit.
"Call someone who doesn t drive, and invite him or her out to lunch or a movie.
"Surprise someone in your house with breakfast in bed.
"Compliment a stranger about something they are wearing.
"Pay the toll for the person behind you.
"Volunteer to help at a school or library.
"Adopt a stray animal.
"Give a lottery ticket to a stranger.
"Include a note or joke in your child s or spouse s lunch box.
"Shovel your neighbor s driveway or mow the lawn.
"Write something nice about your waitperson on the back of the bill.
"Give your place in line at the grocery store to another person, such as someone in a hurry or a parent with restless little children.
"Smile and say thank you to the bus driver or toll collector.
"Hold the door of the elevator, subway, or bus for someone rushing to catch it.
"After loading your groceries into the car, return your shopping cart.
"Donate blood.
"Let someone merge into traffic during rush hour.
"If you play a musical instrument, visit a senior center or hospital and give a brief recital.
"Ask your children to go through their toys and donate some of them to children who are less fortunate.
"Make an anonymous donation to a charity that is actively helping your community.
"When visiting a hospital, spend a few minutes with someone who has no visitors.
"Tape coins to a pay telephone with a note saying that anyone who needs it can use it.
"After reading a book you enjoyed, send a note of appreciation to the author.
"Ask your children to wash an elderly neighbor s car, mow the lawn, or rake leaves without charge.
"Next time you finish your punch card for a free cup of coffee, give it away or ask the cashier to give it to someone who might need it.
"Host a party for the kids in your neighborhood. Make snacks and watch a movie, giving the adults in the neighborhood a night off.
" Help a neighbor with yard work.
100 MORE IDEAS... ( (1. Deliver fresh-baked cookies to city workers. (2. Collect goods for a food bank. (3. Bring flowers to work and share them with coworkers. (4. Garden clubs can make floral arrangements for senior centers, nursing homes, hospitals, police stations, or shut-ins. (5. Adopt a student who needs a friend, checking in periodically to see how things are going. (6. Volunteer to be a tutor in a school. (7. Extend a hand to someone in need. Give your full attention and simply listen. (8. Merchants can donate a percentage of receipts for the week to a special cause. (9. Bring coworkers a special treat. (10. Students can clean classrooms for the custodian. (11. Buy a stranger a free pizza. (12. Distribute lollipops to kids. (13. Sing at a nursing home. (14. Offer a couple of hours of baby-sitting to parents. 15. Slip paper hearts that say It s Random Acts of Kindness Week! Have a great day! under the windshield wipers of parked cars. (16. Have a charity day at work, with employees bringing nonperishable food items to donate. (17. Serve refreshments to customers. (18. Draw names at school or work, and have people bring a small gift or food treat for their secret pal. (19. Remember the bereaved with phone calls, cards, plants, and food. (20. Treat someone to fresh fruit. (21. Pay a compliment at least once a day. (22. Call or visit a homebound person. (23. Hand out balloons to passersby. (24. Give free sodas to motorists. (25. Be a good neighbor. Take over a baked treat or stop by to say Hello. (26. Transport someone who can t drive. (27. Mow a neighbor s grass. (28. Say something nice to everyone you meet today. (29. Send a treat to a school or day-care center. (30. Volunteer at an agency that needs help. (31. Wipe rainwater off shopping carts or hold umbrellas for shoppers on the way to their cars. (32. Give the gift of your smile. (33. Send home a note telling parents something their child did well. (34. Adopt a homeless pet at the humane society. (35. Organize a scout troop or service club to help people with packages at the mall or grocery. (36. Host special programs or speakers at libraries or bookstores. (37. Offer to answer the phone for the school secretary for ten minutes. (38. Volunteer to read to students in the classroom. (39. Write notes of appreciation and bring flowers or goodies to teachers or other important people, such as the principal, nurse, custodian, and secretary. (40. Incorporate kindness into the curriculum at area schools, day care centers, or children s classes in faith organizations. (41. Give a hug to a friend. (42. Tell your children why you love them. (43. Write a note to your mother/father and tell them why they are special. (44. Pat someone on the back. (45. Write a thank-you note to a mentor or someone who has influenced your life in a positive way. (46. Give coffee to people on their way to work in the morning. (47. Donate time at a senior center. (48. Give blood. (49. Visit hospitals with smiles, treats, and friendly conversation for patients. (50. Stop by a nursing home, and visit a resident with no family nearby. (51. Plant flowers in your neighbor s flower box. (52. Give another driver your parking spot. (53. Leave a treat or handmade note of thanks for a delivery person or mail carrier. (54. Give free car washes. (55. Clean graffiti from neighborhood walls and buildings. (56. Tell your boss that you think he/she does a good job. (57. Tell your employees how much you appreciate their work. (58. Let your staff leave work an hour early. (59. Have a clean-up party in the park. (60. Tell a bus or taxi driver how much you appreciate their driving. (61. Have everyone in your office draw the name of a Random Acts of Kindness buddy out of a hat and do a kind act for their buddy that day or week. (62. Give a pair of tickets to a baseball game or concert to a stranger. (63. Leave an extra big tip for the waitperson. (64. Drop off a plant, cookies, or donuts to the police or fire department. (65. Open the door for another person. (66. Pay for the meal of the person behind you in the drive-through. (67. Write a note to the boss of someone who has helped you, praising the employee. (68. Leave a bouquet of flowers on the desk of a colleague at work with whom you don t normally get along. (69. Call an estranged family member. (70. Volunteer to fix up an elderly couple s home. (71. Pay for the person behind you in the movie line. (72. Give flowers to be delivered with meal delivery programs. (73. Give toys to the children at the shelter or safe house. (74. Give friends and family kindness coupons they can redeem for kind favors. (75. Be a friend to a new student or coworker. (76. Renew an old friendship by sending a letter or small gift to someone you haven t talked with in a long time. (77. For one week, act on every single thought of generosity that arises spontaneously in your heart, and notice what happens as a consequence. (78. Offer to return a shopping cart to the store for someone loading a car. (79. Invite someone new over for dinner. (80. Buy a roll of brightly colored stickers and give them to children you meet during the day. (81. Write a card of thanks and leave it with your tip. Be sure to be specific in your thanks. (82. Let the person behind you in the grocery store go ahead of you in line. (83. When drivers try to merge into your lane, let them in with a wave and a smile. (84. Buy cold drinks for the people next to you at a ball game. (85. Distribute kindness bookmarks that you have made. (86. Create a craft project or build a bird house with a child. (87. Give a bag of groceries to a homeless person. (88. Laugh out loud often and share your smile generously. (89. Plant a tree in your neighborhood. (90. Make a list of things to do to bring more kindness into the world, and have a friend make a list. Exchange lists and do one item per day for a month. (91. Use an instant camera to take people s photographs at a party or community event, and give the picture to them. (92. As you go about your day, pick up trash. (93. Send a letter to some former teachers, letting them know the difference they made in your life. (94. Send a gift anonymously to a friend. (95. Organize a clothing drive for a shelter. (96. Buy books for a day care or school. (97. Slip a $20 bill to a person who you know is having financial difficulty. (98. Take an acquaintance to dinner. (99. Offer to take a friend s child to ball practice. (100. Waive late fees for the week.
Friends of The KindnessCenter
MikeMcDonald
Mike McDonald is a very special friend of the KindnessCenter. Mike experienced a traumatic spinal cord injury this past July, leaving him almost completely paralyzed with minimal use of his arms and legs. He is one of the kindest and most courageous people you will ever meet. To read Mike s inspiring story or to help, please visit: www.supportfenwaymike.com
Joe'sJourney...
The video below is from a very dear friend of ours, Lynn Damon. Her husband, Joe, suffered a†traumatic†brain injury in 2006 when he was hit by a truck in Italy. The fact that he is alive today is a true miracle. They are such an inspiration...
When a truck slammed into Joe Damon's car in 2006, the 48-year old husband, father, businessman and athlete suffered a devastating brain injury that left him in a coma for five weeks. "Joe's Journey" tells the story of everything that was lost that day, but more importantly, of all that survived. Through powerful and deeply personal encounters with Joe, his wife, children and close friends, this film reveals the strength in their struggles, the sweetness alongside the shadows, and the quiet heroism of one family living a difficult reality with an extraordinary measure of grace.
Kindlinks...
http://www.afiveoh4uplifting.org
Kindphotographers...
Below are some professional photographers that deserve recognition for their outstanding work and kind hearts. Although each one has their own unique style, they all have one common trait...with or without a camera, they are some of the most wonderful people you will ever meet.
Be kind to yourself...and take a vacation!
If you d like to take the vacation of a lifetime, contact our amazing friend Linda Mitchell, the owner of Bermuda Travel. You will absolutely LOVE her and her radiant energy! You can visit her website at...
- Paul A.
These wristbands are the perfect reminder for you to apply the LivingKindness philosophy each day. People wearing our wristbands have reported life-changing results. By asking yourself, am I being kind, you will make kindness towards yourself, others, and the earth a daily practice. Wristbands are of the highest quality and are made in the USA.
To contact Michael Chase please email
or
Phone 207-620-1023
Mailing Address: The KindnessCenter 16 Paquin Ave. Biddeford, Maine 04005
Sign up below for our LivingKindness Newsletter! Each month, discover
how kindness towards yourself, others, and the earth can
change your life...and the world.
On April 15-16, Michael and his Kindness Crew spent a full 24 hours on the streets of Southern Maine (without sleep!) looking for anyone that could use a helping hand. Some of the acts of kindness performed included: buying coffee for strangers, paying for movie tickets and city bus rides, helping move appliances, handing out balloons, flowers and cookies, visiting schools and nursing homes, working in soup kitchens, and helping feed the homeless. Over 200 acts of kindness were performed within 24 hours...
On June 13th, The Kindness Center, flew from Biddeford, Maine to Los Angeles, California to embark on the biggest kindness event yet. Their mission? To drive from LA back to Maine performing as many random acts of kindness as possible. For eight days they were able to help dozens of people across the country. Some of the acts of kindness included: helping a driver broken down on the highway, buying meals for people at truck stops and all night diners, buying ice cream for groups of kids, picking up litter on streets and beaches, offering to take photos of families on vacation, buying coffee and breakfast for people each morning, handing out free flowers and pastries in Brooklyn NY, buying newspapers for people in New York City, paying for the tolls of cars behind them, and giving out hugs everywhere they would go. During their journey, they also took the time to listen to the stories and wisdom of fellow travelers. By the time they returned home, they had made new friends across eighteen states. And just for the record, actual KM (kindness mileage) was 3,570.6!
Michael handing out roses in Brooklyn NY Helping a fellow traveler in Arkansas
A story about life, turtle soup, and
the evolution of LivingKindness...
Life is good, really good. Sometimes I feel like the good karma train picked me up, and simply refuses to let me off. I have an amazing wife, a teenage son that makes me glow with pride, good health, a wonderful family and the best friends a guy could ask for. I have a lot to be grateful for. For many years now, thank you has become my meditation as I start each day.
But the truth is, life was not always this good. It wasn t all that long ago, when the resume of my life looked radically different. At one time, my life was filled with nearly everything people try to avoid. Experiencing everything from unhappy relationships to financial struggles, poor health, depression, and an endless stream of negative habits was a part of my daily life. It seemed that no matter how hard I tried, happiness was constantly eluding me and disappointment became my shadow. It also seemed as if I was paving the way for a future that sadly resembled my father s &until he took his own life at the age of 54. This was a defining moment for me. Once the shock of losing my father began to fade, clarity and a new sense of purpose became the dominant force in my life. I remember feeling as if I had met myself for the very first time while also becoming conscious of my life s true purpose. It was in that moment that I had made a major decision. Not only would I change my own life, but I would also make a difference in the lives of others.
During the next several years, I totally immersed myself into the teachings of the world s greatest personal and spiritual development gurus. Eckhart Tolle, Dr. Wayne Dyer, Piero Ferrucci, and The Dalai Lama became some of my most influential teachers. Through workshops and spending way too much time in the self-help section at Borders, (the employees there must think I m a total mess) I had literally learned hundreds of techniques for living a fulfilling life, but something still seemed to be missing. Although the ideas I learned had a major impact on the quality of my life, I was still searching for that one universal path to happiness that worked for everyone. Whether you re African American, Caucasian, Native American, Asian, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Atheist or have four legs and a tail I knew there had to be something that benefited all of us, simply because we all want the same thing in life...to be happy.
Enlightenment and epiphanies can show up in some pretty strange ways. The Buddha found it under a Boddhi tree, Nelson Mandela in prison and spiritual guru Ram Dass through psychedelic drugs. Little did I know, mine would arrive in the form of a hard-shelled reptile simply trying to cross the road a turtle. But this wasn t just any turtle, this was the world s most optimistic one. He was tenaciously determined to cross twenty feet of tar as cars zoomed by at 55 mph. (Yes, I said He only a male turtle would be stubborn enough to think he could actually make it). But today was his lucky day. My wife s quick reflexes not only ensured that turtle soup would not be for dinner that night, but her act of kindness would eventually become the foundation for everything I teach today. As unusual as this sounds, the simple act of pulling our car over, removing this little turtle from harms way, and placing him back into the wild, caused something extraordinary to happen inside of me. As I stood there holding this tiny creature in my hands, a wave of pure joy came over me. It was that warm, teary-eyed sensation that we feel during life s greatest moments; like falling in love or the birth of a child. I honestly felt as if my heart was completely opening up as everything stood still around me. In no way would I have described it as enlightenment , but there was no doubt about it helping this little turtle just felt so damn good! But why? After all, it s just a turtle, right? And then it hit me. I finally realized what was happening. At that point, a flood of inspiring thoughts surged through me. I walked back to the car, opened my journal and wrote eight words that would later prove to be life changing for me: kindness creates happiness and live a life of kindness . It was the answer I had been looking for. The secret to inner peace and lasting happiness was kindness. Not random acts of or simply being nice, but rather as...a way of life. I had already known the benefits of kindness through studying many eastern philosophies, but I had never actually considered it as a lifestyle.
But, this day was just beginning &
Just thirty minutes after my mini-epiphany, my wife and I arrived at our original destination a country garden show. After walking around for just a few minutes, a gentle faced 60-something looking man waved me over to the front porch of his farmhouse, for no apparent reason. The entire setting was like a scene out of an old movie weathered rocking chairs the smell of cookies baking and a coon cat that looked as old as the farmhouse itself. Let her look around, come and sit with me he said. I had no idea what to expect, but as I sunk into the large wicker chair beside him, I couldn t help feeling that he was going to say something profound. After all, if a turtle can change my life, why not a wise old farmer? After a brief hello and a polite introduction, we simply sat in silence and let the sunlight warm our faces. After what seemed like an eternity, he finally spoke. You know he said, I ve often thought that the meaning of life is making things a little bit easier for those around us, what do you think? . I was speechless. It felt like I had just been hit on the head again with life s big karma stick. He went on to tell me his version of the secrets to life and how true happiness can only be found by loving and serving others . Finally he finished with, oh, and don t forget &you really gotta love the one you re with...yourself . Life was obviously trying to tell me something.
In the days and weeks that followed, the world looked completely different to me. The more I studied and tested my kindness creates happiness theory, the more I was blown away by its life-changing power. It seemed as if it was the cure to so many of life s ailments. Negative emotions such as anger, depression, bitterness, jealousy and hatred simply could not survive when confronted by thoughts or acts of kindness. But there was more. Studies were showing that kindhearted people were receiving amazing benefits in life, such as: fulfilling relationships, a lower rate of divorce, a strong sense of spirituality, relief from anxiety and depression, deep feelings of self-worth, jobs they loved and, they even lived longer! In addition to those benefits, kindhearted people also experienced karmic kindness . By thinking and acting in kind ways, they were attracting unexpected new opportunities and positive events into their life, proving that there are magnetic qualities to our thoughts and actions. It was a no-brainer. Kind people were happier, healthier and had more fulfilling lives. But, this also made me wonder; if kindness can create happiness, why are there so many unhappy people in the world? What is causing so much suffering? The answer was so incredibly obvious that I swear I heard the universe say, duh? ! If kindness creates happiness then... unkindness creates unhappiness. It was just that simple. People that are unkind towards others, the environment and especially themselves...end up being the unhappiest people on the planet!
This was a huge wake up call to self-responsibility. I realized that most of my disappointments in life were simply because I had been unkind to others and especially to myself. After spending much of my life thinking what s in it for me , my new inner mantra became; am I being kind? . This one simple question changed my life. So, whenever I feel the need to disagree with my wife, lash out at a rude employee in the mall or even before I shove ten cookies into my mouth, I go within and ask; am I being kind? . These four little words have become my source to inner peace. It has created many positive changes in me such as recycling and acting more green and consciously respecting all of life. I even stopped setting the mousetraps in the garage. (My wife is going to kill me when she reads that last one). Another big change in my life was the irresistible urge to perform spontaneous acts of kindness . Things like buying coffee for strangers and giving money to the homeless just seemed natural. Each kind act felt like a blissful surge of energy through my chest. But what became even more exhilarating were the intense feelings of warmth towards everyone around me especially difficult people. Whether there was someone who acted rude in traffic or an inconsiderate person in line at the grocery store, I no longer felt anxious or offended I simply wished for their happiness. That s when I realized what it truly meant to be living kindness.
Many things have changed for me since the turtle incident and discovering the power of kindness. Although I had no idea how a kindness advocate could support a family, I decided to close the doors of my successful business and do exactly what I ve taught so many others to do, listen to your heart . It was the best decision I have ever made. Has it been easy? Not always. There were many times when I questioned this journey and my ability to change the world through kindness. But because of the amazing people that surround me each day, Living Kindness has evolved into something beyond my wildest dreams. If it were not for my wonderful wife Cara, my son Alex, and my loving family and friends &none of this would exist today.
Also, to all of the people who come to my talks, endure my long-winded stories, (like this one) and believe in my vision for a happier, and especially kinder world &thank you! You are the reason I can live out this dream every single day.
With love and gratitude &
Michael
LivingKindness
...philosophy
Become the kindest business or organization in your field!
On September 11, 2008, The KindnessCenter kicked off it s biggest event to date titled Remembering Kindness. Our mission was to bring back the spirit of love and compassion shown during the weeks that followed September 11th, 2001.
From September 11 - 30, 2008 Michael and his Kindness Crew performed random acts of kindness throughout southern Maine while also be sharing this special message with schools, businesses, and communities across the country. Throughout the month of September, we encouraged people to visit our drops of kindness page and choose activities which speak to their heart. Over that time, dozens of emails have poured in from people all over the world. One powerful letter after another shared the amazing acts of kindness performed throughout September.
Photos from September 11th, 2008. Michael, Cara, and John...
Our energetic business presentations are extremely effective for increasing productivity, morale, and harmony in the workplace. By implementing the LivingKindness philosophy into your company, you will notice an immediate spirit of kindness among your employees. This ultimately ensures the growth of your organization, while earning the reputation for being the kindest business in your field! LThe KindnessCenter believes that you must be the change you want to see in the world. Our events have touched thousands of lives and helped spark a kindness revolution across the globe. In addition to our large events, many of our days are spent anonymously buying coffee or meals for strangers, paying for parking or tolls, or helping someone down and out on the street. Many of the acts of kindness we perform cost absolutely nothing. Others require donations from kindhearted individuals and business owners. If you would like to help us continue our mission, any donation would be greatly appreciated. 100% of these donations are used to perform acts of kindness or to help others in need.
ivingKindness at work is perfect for both small and large companies. Michael and Biddeford Middle School s Kindness Crew spent the day together during downtown Biddeford s biggest and brightest, annual festival... Chalk on the Walk. This is Biddeford s version of an Italian Street Painting Festival where artists to come downtown and create vibrant chalk murals all over the sidewalks.
In addition to creating some amazing kindness graffiti, Michael and his crew spent the day performing random acts of kindness, meeting new friends, and making lots of people smile!
Benefits of this program include:
"Tools for communicating with coworkers and clients
"Developing kindness associates rather than customer service employees
"A spirit of harmony in the workplace
"Decrease in conflicts and egotism
Living a lifestyle of kindness can be a challenge in today s stressful world. Our Life Skills program is perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed by the pressures of work, finances, family, or other modern day stressors. By learning to adopt kindness as a way of life, you will discover a newfound sense of joy and inner peace.
During this life-changing workshop, Michael will discuss how to apply the LivingKindness philosophy and 9elements towards your personal life. You will discover how a kind heart is truly the key to happiness and well-being.
Benefits of this program include:
Kinder habits towards yourself, others, and the earth
Health and well-being
Positive relationships
Tools to manage emotions
" Happier social and career life
" Making a difference in the world
" Your life s true purpose
For more information on our life skills program, please contact Michael at:
"Decrease in stress claims
"Client satisfaction and loyalty
Increased sales and revenue
"A happier and healthier work environment
Work program outline
The Objective:
To create a culture of kindness throughout your organization.
The Challenge:
Employees will be challenged to adopt a lifestyle of kindness at work.
The Process:
Michael J. Chase, founder of The KindnessCenter will share his LivingKindness philosophy which will inspire kind behavior throughout your work environment.
This program will also focus on the power of random acts of kindness. Employees will be challenged to perform kind acts within their workplace and community.
For more information and availability, please contact Michael at:
Adopting a lifestyle of kindness is the key to creating positive relationships, an inspiring career, vibrant health, and a more compassionate world. Our exciting program, titled LivingKindness teaches kindness as a way of life, rather than something we do occasionally. Our goal is to inspire people to ask one powerful question towards three specific areas in life.
Throughout your day, ask yourself...
am I being kind
...to myself, to others and to the earth
Kindness towards yourself
Self-kindness means nourishing your life with healthy food, exercise, laughter, a career that you love, and personal/spiritual growth. Kindness towards yourself also means making time for activities that inspire you, spending some time alone in silence, and always choosing kind thoughts about yourself.
Kindness towards others
Each day we encounter numerous opportunities to make life better for others. Practice kindness towards your family, friends, coworkers, strangers, and in all social situations. Think kind thoughts about people, be a good listener, speak kind words and &perform random acts of kindness each day!
Kindness towards the earth
Make time each day to be kind to the earth. Recycle, pick up trash, ride your bike or walk rather than drive. Be compassionate towards the environment, nature, and all living things.
the 9elements
of a kind heart &
Our program is built on nine specific elements which, when applied daily, will produce a phenomenal change. Implementing these throughout schools, businesses, and in your home will have a profound effect on your daily life and those around you. Our LivingKindness workshops inspire people to be...
attentive
an attentive heart is one that recognizes the needs of others
authentic
an authentic heart is one that is genuine and acts from truth
charitable
a charitable heart is one that gives yet expects nothing in return
compassionate
a compassionate heart is one that is sensitive towards all living things
courageous
a courageous heart is one that acts from love rather than fear
enthusiastic
an enthusiastic heart is one that displays limitless energy and passion
grateful
a grateful heart is one that is content and filled with appreciation
inspirational
an inspirational heart is one that encourages and motivates others
patient
a patient heart is one that waits and responds at the proper moment.
LivingKindness
...at school
Accept the LivingKindness Challenge... and become the kindest school in your state!
The KindnessCenter s goal is to make your school the kindest school in your state. Our program was designed to create a change in behavior throughout the school year and beyond. With a measurable system that records acts of kindness, you will notice an immediate increase in positive behavior among students and teachers alike. This program is also a powerful tool to eliminate bullying and conflict. Rather than being against bullying, we offer a positive alternative, which creates a healthier learning environment. Each student will be inspired to cultivate positive qualities towards themselves and others.
Benefits of this program include:
"Vast increase in respect towards self, others, and the earth
"Positive communication skills for teachers and students
"Decrease bullying and conflict
"Life skills for students to use outside of the classroom
"Special projects and events to inspire random acts of kindness
"Daily kindness reminder tools for students and teachers
"Happier and healthier learning environmen "Recognition for being the kindest school in your community or state
Through this life-changing program, students will discover they have the power to make a permanent, positive, cultural change in their school by accepting the LivingKindness challenge. Below is a general guideline for our program and may be customized for different grade levels and your school s needs.
School program outline
The Objective:
To create a culture of kindness throughout the school.
The Challenge
Students will be challenged to:
1. ask yourself each day & am I being kind
2. adopt the LivingKindness philosophy
3. apply the 9elements of a kind heart
The Tools:
9elements self-evaluation test for students
9elements posters/visuals created by students
" 9elements charts and kindness chain links
" activities and special events
" am I being kind reminder bracelet
The Process:
Our program begins with an inspiring presentation by Michael J. Chase, founder of The KindnessCenter. During his talk, Michael will share with students the LivingKindness philosophy and how to apply it throughout each day. Every classroom will be given a nine-week chart based on the teachings of the 9elements. This chart will be used to measure the progress of each classroom. Each week, students will receive a kindness chain link as a reward for good behavior. These links will be used to create a kindness chain within each class.
During Michael s second visit, each chain will be connected and displayed throughout the school. Michael will also evaluate changes, celebrate accomplishments, and set new goals for the students. The next phase of the program will be based on random acts of kindness. Each student will have the opportunity to add links to the kindness chain by performing kind acts within their school, home, and community.
The Celebration!
Michael s 3rd visit is a time to celebrate and be recognized as one of the kindest schools in your state!
Michael jumping rope at Michael at Biddeford Primary School
St. James School in Biddeford
For more information and availability, please contact Michael at:
Michael,
Words cannot express the impact you had on the students the other day.†They continued to talk about you long after you and your crew departed.†Some of the students asked if you could join us on their class trip in June, while others asked when you were going to become a teacher because you're "awesome." I thanked them for being so attentive and enthusiastic, and they started to ask whether or not we could do a similar project after vacation.† We are going to collaborate and find a way for our eighth graders to do their own "Random Acts of Kindness Day."† The students were thrilled to hear this and asked whether or not you would be able to join us.†I told them that once we ironed out the details, I would extend the invitation to you.† It amazes me how you were able to take a group of adolescents who are at a point in their lives when the focus is on me and allowed them the opportunity to develop a greater sense of awareness for others.† From the bottom of my heart, thank you for an incredible experience! I hope you will visit us again soon :)
Jenessa Cadorette. - St. James schoo
The LivingKindness Challenge...
The LivingKindness challenge was designed to transform any negative environment into one that is filled with kindness and positive energy.
1. ask yourself each day & am I being kind
2. adopt the LivingKindness philosophy
3. apply the 9elements of a kind heart
For specific LivingKindness program outlines,
please visit our School, Work and Life pages. Our Mission
The Kindness Center s mission is to create a more peaceful and kindhearted world. We accomplish this by inspiring others to adopt kindness as a way of life, and to ask the question each day:
am I being kind
...to myself, to others and to the earth
