By Growing up my grandmother would set aside a day to gather clothes to give to those who didn’t have them.
“Ryan it is time for the yearly Gracious Day, make sure to clean out your closet,” she would say “It’s time to give.”
On Gracious Day we delivered clothes to the children’s shelter. I would go through my closet and try on shirts, and pants. I would place the clothes I didn’t need any more into a bag and label it “my friends.”
At first, it seemed so daunting to have to go through my clothes and decide which ones I didn’t need anymore. However, as I have grown, Gracious Day has become my favorite tradition. My heart feels warm, knowing that young kiddos may have a pair of walking shoes, and or new shirt.
Not a day goes by when I don’t think of grandma.
Grandma taught me a lesson that was deeper than used clothes. Throughout her life, grandmother emphasized to me her golden rule, which is to treat others with respect, give to others in need, and always smile at someone because they might be going through a difficult time.
College is stressful. Liberal arts mean sooner or later we encounter courses that take us out of our comfort zone.
When we slip and slide, however briefly, we can lose our balance. It’s at times like those that we need Gracious Day gifts – not used clothes, but a little extra care.
Gracious Day can take many forms.
Gracious Day may be moments of kindness in our community at Carroll. Gracious Day may be talking to new faces on our campus – or noticing a usually cheerful student with her head down and sitting with her at lunch.
Gracious Day may also mean driving to get food for someone who is ill living in the dorms.
Let’s make every day gracious here at Carroll College – and remember the random acts of kindness that can bring joy – to others and to us.
My grandmother’s wise words have forever affected the way I see and treat others. She taught me what kindness could mean. She has also shown me what acts of kindness could look like.
My 81-year-old my grandmother will always embody kindness.
I am eager for my next Gracious Day, another day of giving.
Not a day goes by when I don’t think of grandma, and her lessons.
“It’s time to give.”
