The movement continues at La Porte High School as senior Zach Robbins starts his own kindness campaign. Students can often walk through the high school’s halls ignorant to those around them, but there is a new spirit in the hallways, and the kindness movement has become a ripple effect.
“My inspiration came from it being the anniversary of my accident. I was happy to be alive and I felt others should be happy in their own lives as well. I wanted others to smile, feel good and laugh even if it was at my own expense,” Robbins explained.
Robbins started the campaign on March 14 with the simple act of creating poster reading “FREE HIGH-5 AND/OR COMPLIMENT.” With the help of his friend, Louis Muckway, he took to the lunch room to spew some compliments and spread the cheer. Some students were at first shocked, but since then there has only been positive reactions.
“So far, I have given out high-fives, compliments, hugs, handmade T-shirts and little trinkets/bracelets. I also told cheesy pick-up lines to anyone that asked for one. I made the National Kindness Day event on Facebook, and also created a page called ‘Acts of Random Kindness,'" Robbins said.
The movement is not expected to end after one week. Robbins expects to run the campaign for as long as he feels needed. He and fellow senior Michael Kendall worked up the idea of doing a “kindness day” every week.
“I definitely plan to continue giving high-fives or whatever else the people ask for, and of course promote kindness continually,” he said.
To promote the campaign Muckway and Robbins had a short segment on WIMS RADIO 1420 AM. The campaign has touched a lot of people at the school and has inspired others as well.
“There is nothing like a little act of kindness to brighten the day. I hope the campaign continues, and I certainly am more inspired to brighten someone’s day. It can make a huge difference,” explained student Emily Sightes.
Robbins has learned a lot from the experience and has personally benefitted. He has made new friends through the process and enjoys seeing brighter expressions in the hallways.
“I hope others learn to be kinder in their lives and less prone to violence or anger," he said. "I also hope this helps kids that are shy, or fearful to break out of their comfort zone, “shell” if you will. I also hope that others learn that, truly, one person CAN make a difference.