Ever since 1964, March 13 has been proclaimed National Good Samaritan Day - the day we celebrate the compassion and kindness of strangers.  The day actually came to be though because of people doing just the opposite - not getting involved.

March 13, 1964 Catherine “Kitty” Genovese was brutally stabbed to death near her home in New York City.  What made this particular case especially disturbing was that nearly 40 bystanders stood by and did nothing while Genovese screamed for help. It took over an hour before a neighbor finally called the police, but it was too late.

Unfortunately, this type of scenario occurs far too often in our world. People often ignore someone in desperate need. Why is that?  Is it fear of getting injured?  Expecting someone else to be the first to step up?  Not wanting to be inconvenienced?

I realize authorities recommend you not get involved during an actual crime, but given the advancement of technology, it's easier than ever before for anyone to pick up the phone and dial 9-1-1 for assistance.  No excuses!!!

In fact, one only has to remember back to September 11, 2001. Despite knowing the danger involved, those courageous heroes aboard United Flight 93 took matters into their own hands and saved countless lives and further destruction.

Good Samaritan Day serves as a reminder that we should always help others in need. Whether it’s an elderly neighbor who needs a little help or a complete stranger, assisting someone not only helps them, it also sets a good example.  Plus, it makes you feel good too.

And it doesn't have to be something as selfless as stepping in front of someone who has a gun pointed at them, or rushing into a burning building to save those inside.  It can be as simple as the photo above - helping a child learn how to read.

In honor of Good Samaritan Day, plan on doing something nice for someone else today. Remember, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

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