Purposeful lists of random kindnesses

DEAR ABBY: Congratulations to "Trying to Be Nice" for her random acts of kindness. The world needs more of it. Let me point out, however, that being nice isn't just about doing specific charitable tasks. It is something that applies every moment of every day, and as the axiom says, "Charity begins at home."

It can mean paying a compliment to a family member or friend, refraining from a hurtful comment at work or in school, smiling to a stranger on the street, willingly doing a chore at home (even if it's "not my job") or something as simple as cleaning up one's own mess after lunch. To quote another axiom: Little things mean a lot.

- Rheal in Ottawa, Canada

DEAR RHEAL: I agree. I was touched by the responses I received from readers suggesting other acts of kindness:

DEAR ABBY: Animal shelters often need volunteers to walk dogs. Rescue organizations could use foster families for pets, or even pet food donations or supplies. Veterans organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project welcome volunteers to help with events, or mentor or assist vets in writing a résumé.

If you sign up with Volunteers of America, they can match you with organizations that suit your skills.

Around the holidays, my husband and I visit the cemetery and clean/maintain headstones that look neglected, especially those of veterans.

- Lynn in Bothell, Wash.

DEAR ABBY: Donating your hair to Locks of Love is one of my favorite acts of kindness. Your hair will help make wigs for women with cancer. Donating blood is another great way to help strangers.

- Sara in Sugar Land, Texas

DEAR ABBY: Volunteer to drive people to vote on Election Day. And the easiest - call the aging members of your family regularly and let them talk your ear off!

- Mary in East Hartford, Conn.