9 Unconventional ways to make someone's day

An uncountable number of times a day, I run into things that will remind me of certain people. Chances are, that person would be absolutely tickled to know that someone was thinking of them or that they share a common interest that I associate with them. Here are 9 ways to take a brief thought and turn it into a smile.

1. Rip, clip or copy the page of the newspaper, magazine or book that made you think about someone. Slap a post-it with a hello on it and drop it in the mail so they can read it too--yes, the real mail. With a stamp.
2. Carry a digital camera with you. Snap pictures of the things that trigger happy memories. Upload and tag.
3. Hear a song that reminds you of someone? Gift it to them on iTunes. At just 99 cents a song, it's worth it to share a happy feeling in the form of musical sentiment.
   
4. Go hug them. Not unconventional, but often underestimated.
5. Ask about life. Ask to see pictures or projects. Ask if you can help. Mean it.
6. Send them an e-mail with a one liner of the most important thing you have to tell them.
   
7. Draw them a picture. No, seriously. Do it. Make sure it's at least cute, if not a work of art.
8. Tell them you'll pray for them. And do it. People don't expect to hear it... but they're usually thankful for someone who cares enough to pray, and actually say that they will.
9. Make a care package... there's nothing more encouraging than getting a package or being presented with a grocery bag full of simple but meaningful things. A favorite magazine and snacks, a good book you just read and wanted to pass on, something that's just fun (bubbles, etch-a-sketch, goofy old pictures).
   

The point isn't really what you do. It's the fact that you're doing something. In today's multi-media, fast action, over-booked world, it's easy to forget that people need encouragement from the people who love them. In a world that's growingly devoid of simple friendships and emotional connection, it doesn't take much to get lost and discouraged.

Change that. Make somebody smile.