Fire has the ability to either consume or refine, but the 26 Acts of Kindness movement proves that the nation, and now the WS community, is determined to bring beauty from ashes.

There are some days that will always stand still in time. Days when the whole world stopped and came together in humanity to mourn, rage, and hope. Days when, even if only for a moment, we were unaware of the afflictions and cleavages that bombard how we relate to one another and hinder our connections. Days that propel us forward into change and bind us in unity. December 14, 2012 will forever be one of those days.

The tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School has imprinted the hearts of millions, causing them to consider their day to day actions in light of life’s brevity. The 26 Acts of Kindness movement testifies to this impact, spreading a nationwide movement encouraging people to do exactly what it says in honor of the Sandy Hook victims: act kind. WS is joining in, dedicating 26 days in the month of April to the movement’s community-oriented mission.

“The 26 days represent random acts of kindness for each person killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School,” said senior Janique Blackbird.

Over the course of the 26 days, each day of the week will be dedicated to promoting thoughtfulness amongst the student body. Lend-A-Hand Mondays, High-Five a Stranger Tuesdays, Compliment Card Wednesdays, Thank-You Thursdays, and Free-Hug Fridays have all been designated to achieve the end of increasing friendly interaction between WS students.

“This can be very uplifting to students’ spirits, and that’s what we need to do as a society,” said junior Eddie Kim.

The intention is that the WS community use the 26 days not only to honor the victims and their families, but also to allow the event to change their lifestyles that the legacy of the victims might live on. The individual acts promote a worldview that savors the value of those around us and establishes the significance of every moment; taking advantage of the life we’ve been given

“I think this is a good idea because it allows students to give back to the community that’s helped them over the years,” said senior Taylor McConnell.