Summary

Note: Time has passed. This is the original post, given to my American friends. To discover how this project has unfolded, read some stories from India posts.

A Summary of the HKE

When I think about the people on the other side of the world, I wish them well. I want good things for them. I want to understand them and be understood, and I want to be a kind friend. Sometimes I would like them to know all this. Do you as well? Why not tell them?

Part I – ‘Pure’ Kindness
Find something simple and meaningful that you can and want to give, and I will travel to India and give it on your behalf. Compassion has to do with concern and attention. We connect with people by sharing, giving, and listening. Meaningful giving is not easy – here are some ideas:
--cultural tidbit ("Every Thanksgiving our family gets together and…")
--hug, handshake, or smile
--political disclaimer ("Not every American supports ruthless imperialism. In fact…")
--sincere eye contact
--story ("When I was young I had an invisible tree fort that I would play in…")
--prayer, kind words, positive vibes
--advice, a question, a cup of chai and an open ear, patience
--tune of a song, directions to a game, a good recipe

These are simple manifestations of human kindness, and although they seem insignificant, I think that it is through meaningful giving that we spread goodwill and foster understanding. For example, I may make a friend, look them in the eye, and say: "My American friend apologizes for the USA’s bullying foreign policy and wants you to know that you have a friend in New York City."

Part II – ‘Concrete’ Kindness
The people of India, like Americans, and like all people in the world, struggle as they grow. While I don’t think it’s possible to end all hardship, I see this universal striving as an opportunity to establish positive connections and show compassion. While I was in India, I found (and documented) very clear opportunities to help in a personal and direct way. I would like you to give me money, which I will use in a variety of ways to show kindness. Some ways in which your money can help:
--education (some kids can’t afford school because terrorism hurts tourism)
--malnourishment, leprosy, health (on a personal basis or through local groups)
--overpopulation/contraception (many Indians are unaware of the options)
--agriculture (support of traditional methods, help with livestock or tools)
--culture (support for yoga, music, or religion on a local level)

There are many subtle issues with equating money and kindness that I have carefully thought over (see FAQ). Perhaps I’ll befriend a farmer and buy him a goat in exchange for learning about milking. I will carefully document all exchanges, and send pictures and stories back to the States.
You have the option of itemizing how you would like your money used. As an incentive, I’m taking pledges for my hiking trip on the Appalachian Trail. Would you agree to pay one cent for every mile I hike?
If you are interested in participating in my experiment, please fill out the Contribution Form. I encourage you to read the Frequently Asked Questions. Please, please, please ask me questions or tell me what you think about this project.