February 17^th is Random Acts of Kindness Day – a day when we all try to show a little more consideration to our neighbours. When someone does something kind for us out of the blue – even something small – it can make a big impact. We asked Canadians via our social media channels to tell us about someone who had shown them kindness in the last year and made their life better. We were touched to hear about so many Canadians finding opportunities to be kind to each other.

We selected a few of the entries that we received and sent them a little surprise in the mail. And we sent the folks that nominated them something as well. Spreading kindness is a great way to #LiveByTheLeaf. We’re delighted to share these stories with you!

Pauline Cockburn, Ontario
Nominated by Janique Spencer

When I was in labour unfortunately my mother wasn’t able to accompany me to the hospital and be there for the birth of her first grandchild. So I asked my Aunt Pauline to be there and document the moment for me. Even though she didn't like seeing blood she said yes without hesitation. Her being there made the whole process easier and less frightening for me. She was an angel and she's still my angel. I love her unconditionally and so does my daughter.

Kris Harris, Ontario
Nominated by Brenda Wilson

Kris is just a genuinely kind person each and every day. He inspires me to be a better person. From his pocket full of $5 gift cards that he hands out randomly, to opening doors for people, giving a compliment to anyone around him, stopping to acknowledge every dog he sees, shoveling an elderly man's drive and walk, paying for someone's coffee and treats, being ready to listen to any teen in his high school and doing random acts of kindness every single day, you could NOT ask for a guy more deserving of this award. His heart is bigger than the universe.   

Jonathan Laporte, Quebec
Nominated by Melanie Camirand

During the Holidays, seeing the difficulties I had in the fall while homeschooling my son, who seemed to have lost all motivation, although he usually was a good learner, Jonathan, a second-year student in specialized education, offered to evaluate him and find solutions, leveraging what he had learned in school. He spent 2 weeks observing and questioning my son, took many notes and transferred to me his discoveries and potential solutions. He brought light to the situation when I felt out of resources, and he gave us hope. I am extremely grateful for Jonathan's commitment!

Marg Hiltz, Nova Scotia
Nominated by Pamela Beattie

COVID sure interfered with my socializing, especially playing CRIB, at the local community hall. Well, friend Marg called three of us to say she was hosting a weekly CRIB afternoon at her place. Sure felt good to gather, in a safe environment, and enjoy the game we had been missing. The games continue, giving us four something to look forward to every week.

Eugenia Mardli, Manitoa
Nominated by Alice Spence

Eugenia considers it an honour to help others. She brought family from the Ukraine to her home and now has two adults, along with a 7-year-old and a 1-year-old, living with her in her very small house. She's taken people to Winnipeg for specialist appointments, cataract surgery, to help get provincial Health registrations. Eugenia is a Registered Nurse and has helped the nursing shortage by picking up shifts on every ward at our hospital.  Eugenia is one in a million and still has time to walk her dog daily. Eugenia expects nothing in return for her ongoing good deeds!

Gerald Gerard, Ontario
Nominated by Pam Lalonde

Gerald, a longtime friend of my husband, is an avid hunter and fisherman. What makes Gerald so special is that he shares his catch. Every year we get a visit or two from Gerald, who brings us freshly caught fish (already cleaned and packaged), fowl like goose breast and also moose and deer kielbasa, smoked trout and many other goodies. We are not the only recipients of his kindness, there are many others. I nominate Gerald because he embodies the phrase "it is better to give than to receive". He truly is an angel amongst us!