As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on an unexpected moment that embodies everything The Community Circle Project was built upon: connection, kindness, and the belief that we all share a common humanity.
Recently, I parked my car near a local coffee shop, looking forward to a fun conversation with a friend. When I returned, I noticed a note tucked under my windshield wiper. My heart sank—what now? But as I opened the note, I was met with an unexpected act of grace.
A man who had accidentally hit my car didn’t just leave an apology. He went above and beyond. He filed a police report at the station across the street, ensuring everything was documented. Then he waited—yes, waited—for me to return so he could personally take responsibility, apologize, and reassure me that he would work with me to address the damage.
I could have been upset about the inconvenience of dealing with insurance claims or the damage to my car. But instead, I was moved by his kindness and accountability and I in turn responded with understanding, acknowledging that these things happen. (Perhaps I had been prepared for this by a previous dent put into my car a few months ago by a different driver in a different location who did not leave a note and just left.)
In a world where it’s often easier to walk away or avoid discomfort, this man chose integrity. It was a simple yet profound reminder of the power of approaching every situation with kindness as our goal.
What if we all did this? What if, no matter the situation, we made kindness our guiding principle? What kind of world would we create?
This incident feels like the perfect way to close out the year and reengage with the mission of The Community Circle Project: to show how deeply we are all connected and how much we share the same desires for understanding, compassion, and connection in our lives.
It’s also a timely reflection as my hometown celebrates its kindness theme with community read activities. The family workshop inspired by Alma Thomas’s circle art that I’m teaching January 18, 2025 at the Attleboro Arts Museum also will remind us that, like her bold, colorful circles, our actions ripple out into the world. Each act of kindness, no matter how small, can inspire others to do the same.
As we step into the new year, let’s carry this spirit of connection and kindness with us. Whether it’s owning up to a mistake, supporting a neighbor, or simply sharing a smile, every act counts. Together, we can create a stronger, more compassionate world.
Here’s to a new year filled with kindness and the belief that we are all part of something greater—a circle that connects us all.
