When I had the idea to work on the 26 Acts of Kindness, I decided to “schedule” each victim by last name alphabetical order. Little did I know that Josephine would wind up being featured the week before my birthday (which was last Sunday). Josephine had just celebrated her birthday right before the shooting, sadly. So, I feel a little kinship to Josephine right now.

I thought about doing something birthday-related, but all of my birthday-type ideas seemed to have a “down side” to them that bothered me…a lot. So, I decided instead, to focus on her love of the color purple (the shade, not the movie!). The university in our little town has, as its school colors, purple and white. And this is the school where I worked and studied as a grad student. So, I decided to give the local “spirit store” a check (to a trusted friend there, who just happens to manage the store). I asked her/the store to give a purple t-shirt to whomever she deemed “in need of a free t-shirt” anonymously. She was very kind and was delighted to take part in this act of kindness.

Since our college’s basketball team is always pretty competitive, I figure this is a great time of year for someone to be donning a new purple tee. Let’s hope they get as much joy out of it as I did, giving it in memory of Josephine.

Today’s honoree is Dylan Hockley. Here is a little information about Dylan:

Dylan Hockley, 6

Dylan and his family had just moved from England to Connecticut two years ago. “We specifically chose Sandy Hook for the community and the elementary school. We do not and shall never regret this choice,” Dylan’s family said in a statement. Dylan’s family said he loved to cuddle and play tag with neighbors at the bus stop every morning. “He was learning to read and was so proud when he read us a new book every day,” the family said. “He adored his big brother Jake, his best friend and role model.” Dylan’s parents also expressed gratitude to the educators who died with their son. “We cannot speak highly enough of Dawn Hochsprung and Mary Sherlach, exceptional women who knew both our children,” the family said. “Dylan’s teacher, Vicki Soto, was warm and funny and Dylan loved her dearly. We take great comfort in knowing that Dylan was not alone when he died, but was wrapped in the arms of his amazing aide, Anne Marie Murphy. So, what did you do for your act of kindness? Please submit a comment below that you participated (Details are not necessary, but are certainly welcome!).

Tomorrow’s Post: What I Just Love about Visiting the Dentist….