The first few lyrics in Elvis Costello’s 1979 song, “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace Love and Understanding” read:

As I walk through this wicked world

Searchin’ for light in the darkness of insanity

I ask myself, “Is all hope lost?

Is there only pain and hatred and misery?”

In the third verse of the song he asks, “Where are the strong, and who are the trusted?”

The sentiment of his first verse and his question in the third verse (sadly) still resonate today, maybe even more so, which is why I am so moved when I hear a “feel good story”. Perhaps you feel the same. If so, I have one to share:

Last year, my mother visited her country of origin. While she was there, she bought me a beautiful gold bracelet. In addition to its monetary significance, it also holds meaning because of where she purchased it. I have worn it proudly every day since. Two days ago, I lost it.

Yesterday morning, I entered my classroom (I am a teacher) and as I approached my desk, I saw my gold bracelet had been placed on the stool standing next to it, as if waiting for me. I gasped, as I couldn’t believe it was there.

I immediately went down to the school’s main office to inquire about who it was that had cleaned my classroom the night before because that person had obviously found the bracelet and left it there for me. I explained to one of the school secretaries that I would like to thank whomever it was, and I would like to make his or her supervisor aware of what transpired as well.

Later in the day, the secretary emailed me the custodian’s name. Before I left work, she and I spoke again. She assured me that the individual’s supervisor was notified and that he would be commended (I bought him a gift card as a small token of thanks as well). We spoke about how rare it is to come across someone with such integrity and character, and how the gesture restored our faith in people. That night, at the dinner table, I shared the story with my family, too. I want my children to know that despite what the news says, the world is not all bad.

On one hand, it’s a shame that evidence of someone’s good character and integrity is so surprising, but on a much more positive note, it’s proof that there is good in the world. I’d like to think there are people like my school’s custodian all around us – they just don’t get the “press” that evil doers get. I guess this post is my small way of trying to change that.

To all of you doing the right thing when no one is looking, thank you, and please don’t stop! You’re an example to us all and (to answer Elvis Costello’s question), evidence that all hope is not lost!

As Bonnie Raitt sings, “Let’s give ‘em something to talk about.” Perhaps that “something” can be kindness.