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Good Grief. Any Peanuts® fan knows that “Good Grief” is Charlie Brown’s way of saying, “Seriously?” You can just tell by his toothless cartoon mouth that he’s frustrated, bummed out or depressed, disappointed yet again by not being able to kick a football, thinking he killed his sparse little Christmas tree with just one ornament or when Lucy unfailingly humiliates him, making him feel like a “blockhead ” Unlike Charlie Brown, though I still cry for no apparent reason and feel a tremendous void in my life since my mom passed away in late December, Maya Angelou reminds me that mine has literally been good grief. As I navigate my way through this uncharted experience of heartbreak, I have also been unexpectedly amazed, uplifted and blessed over the past few weeks.

Friends and relatives have sent cards, personal remembrances, Masses and beautiful flowers and thoughtful gifts but, of the more than 300 so far, one stood out: It was from someone I’ve never met. With a short letter that said, “We appreciate all that you do for Neighbors,” this Forest Park resident’s timing was impeccable. I was unsure if I could face the demands of the February issue and then I opened this note that actually prompted me to roll up my sleeves.

And to the friend who shared the story of the “signs” since losing her mom a year ago, I am inspired to believe and be more aware of those subtle moments that are more than just a coincidence. She very rarely wears pants with pockets or handles cash and yet she frequently will find dimes in her coat, in her car or on the sidewalk which, according to the Farmers’ Almanac, is often considered a “sign that your loved one isn't as distant as you thought ” Upon further reading, the same holds true for cardinals, butterflies, feathers, some numbers, dreams and even smells and songs

These two brief examples, among others, are the reason for dedicating the front cover this month to the campaign by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation (RAK), a small nonprofit that invests time, expertise and resources into its mission, Make Kindness the Norm, rooted in the belief that all people can connect through kindness and that kindness can be taught. They don’t even accept donations. RAK exists merely to remind people in this busy, often harsh world that kindness at home, at work and in school is so simple, free, contagious and even boosts mood. February 12-18 is designated as Random Act of Kindness Week but, good grief, it should be an everyday intention. For those who might need a refresher course in kindness, the website offers free kindness ideas, quotes, a blog, stories and videos to reinforce how easy it is to smile, to listen, to ask, share, write a note, offer your seat to an elderly person, be kind to your server, shop local, write a positive comment online, text someone good morning or good night, donate to a cause, teach kids kindness. One college student reflected being 8 years old, seeing an old man barely able to carry his groceries because walking was so painful and difficult for him Inspired by a lifetime of unspoken actions by her grandmother, she sprung into action without thinking twice Expecting nothing in return, of course, she was given the ultimate gift when he said with sincere gratitude, “God bless you ”

In the end, I may not remember the name of those Forest Park residents a year from now; I may not remember if my friend found dimes or pennies in her coat; the old man may not remember the little girl who helped him; but the good feelings associated with sharing and helping are never forgotten. Be random, neighbors. It all starts with an act.