It Doesn’t Take Much to Make Us Understand: Uniting a Nation Through Small Acts of Kindness -By Shalom Kasim

On a fine Thursday morning in Kebbi state, an encounter with a kind-hearted woman while heading to the Community Development Service (CDS) secretariat left a lasting impression on this NYSC corps member’s heart. As we shared the journey, I couldn’t help but eavesdrop on her conversation in Hausa with a friend, expressing her joy in helping me and her commitment to giving back to corps members. Her words sparked a realization: the little things we do for one another hold the immense power to unite us as a nation.

In a society where we are often bombarded with grand gestures and ostentatious displays of wealth, it is easy to overlook the significance of small acts of kindness. Yet, these humble acts, like the one I experienced that morning, possess the potential to bridge the gaps between different strata of society, heal divisions, and cultivate a sense of togetherness.

The woman’s nostalgia for the past, reminiscing about the time when she earned a mere N1600, painted a vivid picture of how life has evolved in Nigeria. It highlights the stark contrast between generations and raises important questions about the true measure of happiness and contentment. We must not forget that our predecessors found joy even in the simplest of lives, and it is this unyielding spirit that we need to preserve and foster.

As an NYSC corps member receiving a monthly stipend of N33,000, one might assume that life has become significantly easier. However, the reality is that despite the increase in financial allowances, the cost of living has also risen exponentially. This paradox is where the lesson lies: it isn’t just about the amount of money we earn, but rather, it’s about how we treat and support one another in our journey.

Small acts of kindness, like offering a lift to a stranger, are gestures that require little effort but carry profound impact. It is in these moments that we transcend the barriers of ethnicity, religion, and social status. Our nation is a diverse tapestry of cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds, and it is the cumulative effect of these small acts that binds us together as one unified entity.

Imagine if each of us took a moment each day to extend a helping hand, to offer a kind word, or to show empathy to someone in need. The ripple effect would be astounding. We have the power to create a culture of compassion and empathy, where we recognize that we are all in this together, navigating the complexities of life side by side.

By acknowledging and appreciating the contributions of each member of society, irrespective of their status or profession, we can bridge the gap between the privileged and the less fortunate. It is through this sense of unity that we can collectively tackle the myriad of challenges facing our nation, be it poverty, unemployment, or social injustice.

As we move forward, let us remember that the foundation of a strong and united nation lies not in grand gestures or opulent displays, but rather in the small acts of kindness that we extend to one another. It is in these little things that we make ourselves truly understand the value of unity and solidarity.

So, the next time you find an opportunity to help a fellow Nigerian, embrace it. Whether it’s a stranger in need of a lift or a neighbour in need of assistance, your small act of kindness can be the catalyst for a brighter, more united future for our beloved nation. It doesn’t take much to make us understand – we are stronger together.