Do you remember reading Aesop’s Fables when you were little? One story in particular, “The Lion and the Mouse,” rings true as we enter the season of giving and have numerous opportunities to show kindness to others.

You may recall in the fable, a lion threatens a mouse that woke him. The mouse begs for forgiveness and makes the point that such unworthy prey would bring the lion no honor. The lion agrees and sets the mouse free. Later, the lion is netted by hunters. Hearing its roars, the mouse remembers the lion’s clemency and frees it by gnawing through the ropes. The moral of the story states, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

Like the lion and the mouse, there are so many ways that you can show small acts of kindness to others this holiday season – and every season thereafter. Moreover, it does not have to be a huge public display. The following is a list of simple, yet meaningful, ways that you can make a difference in someone’s life:

• Why wait for a special occasion? Make a homemade card and send it to a friend.
• Buy a lottery ticket for a stranger.
• Buy a coffee for the person behind you in the drive-thru.
• Give a compliment about your waiter/waitress to their manager.
• Send someone a small gift anonymously.
• Treat a friend to the movies.
• Give a generous tip to someone when they least expect it.
• Hold the train door open for someone rushing to get in.
• Give up your seat for someone, not just an elderly person.
• Write notes of appreciation at least once a week.
• Pick up some trash on the road, which would otherwise be lying around.
• Give another driver your parking spot.
• Tell all of your family members how much you appreciate them.
• Make a meal or dessert for your neighbors.

There are so many simple acts of kindness, and they all count toward brightening someone’s day. At Chronic Disease Fund, that’s exactly what we do. Our mission is to make chronic disease patients’ days better by providing copay assistance for their medications. Right now, millions of Americans diagnosed with a chronic disease already have insurance. However, they cannot afford their expensive copays, which can cost anywhere from $300 - $3,000 per month! You can help give these patients the Good Days® they deserve. You may be thinking to yourself, “I want to help, but I don’t have the money.” Please remember that any amount helps – even $1 – because 90% of your donation goes directly toward helping patients in need.

Another point to remember is that donating money is not the only way you can help further Chronic Disease Fund’s cause. You can get involved by volunteering, following us on Facebook, and spreading the word about our organization.

From everyone at Chronic Disease Fund, we thank you for all of your support. Without you, we couldn’t be the organization we are today.