How to Celebrate National Be An Angel Day Texas Style

This year, on Thursday, August 22nd, many around the globe will recognize and celebrate National Be An Angel Day. This holiday was started by author and Reverend Jane Howard Feldman to encourage acts of kindness worldwide. Feldman’s idea, symbolized by #BeAnAngelDay, has grown into a nationally recognized day of goodwill.

How many times have we heard someone say, "Oh, she is such an angel," or "He is such an angel"? These phrases often stem from acts of kindness someone has performed. Pastor Feldman initiated this movement with her inspirational books, including "Driving Under the Influence of Angels," "Commune with the Angels," and "Angels by My Side." She founded National Be An Angel Day to be celebrated annually on August 22nd.

This day is meant to recognize those who have been angels to us in our times of need, and those who stepped in to help when we felt alone. What is it about these angels that come just in the nick of time?

Not only is National Be An Angel Day a time for recognition, but it also encourages each of us to do what our parents, grandparents, and loved ones taught us: "Do the right thing." I live by the principle of doing the right thing, especially when nobody is watching. This is my definition of integrity.

So, this August 22nd, let's come together in our little area of the world known as West Texas, the Big Country, the Concho Valley, or the entire Lone Star State, and be angels for a day. I believe this should include individuals, businesses, organizations, churches, and families, all coming together to perform acts of kindness.

As the saying goes here in West Texas, "No act of kindness, no matter how small or big, ever goes to waste." So reach out with an open heart, be an angel, and help someone or an animal today!

With it being back-to-school time, how can you help someone in need? During the heat of summer, how can you help someone or some animal stay cool and survive the brutal Texas sun? During the short nights and long days, how can we help those struggling with loneliness and depression? National Be An Angel Day is an opportunity to put on your wings and halo and go to work.

Finally, I believe Texans are some of the kindest people in the world, and having lived around the world, I know Texas has angels flying all around us. So, how can we be angels in this world of social media? Think about that and reach out to help someone, not only on Thursday, August 22nd but every day.

Here are 10 ideas on how to be an angel:

1. Use kind words to spread positivity.
2. Forgive someone who has wronged you.
3. Thank the people who make your life better.
4. Give the gift of patience.
5. Pay it forward.
6. Pray on behalf of others.
7. Be a helping hand to others in need.
8. Put a surprise in your friend’s inbox.
9. Donate your talents to a good cause.
10. Help out our furry, finned, and feathered friends.

These ideas, from GuidePost.com, offer practical ways to make a difference.