Every act of kindness makes the world a brighter place

(May this true story of an act of kindness (with names changed) inspire you to similar acts.)

In the autumn of 2024, as the holiday season approached, a little cat named Harmony had been missing for 12 long months, wandering alone and searching for a place to call home. Just when hope seemed lost, a remarkable woman named Grace stepped in to change the course of Harmony’s life.

One chilly evening. Grace strolled through her neighborhood walking her two dogs, Sweetie, a spirited lab-pitbull mix, and Jack, an adorable Shih Tzu.  The sun began to set, painting the sky with warm hues of red and gold, while twinkling holiday lights adorned the houses, creating a festive atmosphere. It was then that Harmony, who must have made a wish of her own to find a cozy window to look through, cautiously emerged from her hiding place, and followed Grace home.

Day after day, from the bushes Harmony watched Grace walk her dogs. One frosty morning, as Grace left for work, Harmony mustered the courage to let out a faint meow, then another. Grace, hearing the calls, turned around and looked under the bushes, her heart swelling with compassion.

“Kitty, kitty, don’t be afraid. Are you hungry? Come, let me feed you,” she said reassuringly. Grace hurried back inside, prepared some food, and left it where she had heard the faint meows. The kindness in her heart embodying the true spirit of the season and shinning brighter than twinkling holiday lights.

Grace made a makeshift home and left it where she heard the faint meows. After several attempts, she was able to capture the little kitty, who was skin and bones and covered with ticks. With painstaking efforts, Grace groomed and cleaned Harmony, tears of happiness streaming down her face as she gently held her in her arms. 

However, the joy was short-lived. Just two days after her rescue, Harmony ran away again. Refusing to give up, Grace, with the help of her sister, quickly organized the support of the Loudoun Community Cat Coalition, an organization dedicated to helping lost and stray animals. Angelica, the head of this organization, became a guiding figure in the rescue effort. With Angelica’s guidance and the support of the coalition, Grace set out on a mission to bring Harmony back home once more, fueled by the spirit of the season and the promise of a loving family.

As the temperatures began to drop, Grace and the coalition worked tirelessly to capture Harmony again. Determined to ensure Harmony’s safety, they set traps, spread the word throughout the neighborhood, and hung flyers adorned with holiday cheer. Their dedication paid off, and soon they were able to capture Harmony in the early hours of a cold November morning, just in time for Thanksgiving.

At the vet, Grace learned that Harmony was chipped. Her owners were found and in recognition of Grace’s tireless efforts to rescue Harmony, gifted her to Grace.  

Now, Harmony is nestled in her forever home, basking in the warm and loving embrace of Grace, along with her new siblings, Jack and Sweetie, who will always look out for her and ensure she is loved, cared for, and protected. Little Harmony is on her way to recovery and good health, surrounded by warmth, affection, and the spirit of the holidays.

Harmony’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on the lives of animals in need. Grace’s unwavering dedication and the support of the Loudoun Community Cat Coalition highlight the significance of helping lost or stray animals, especially during this magical time of year when compassion and kindness are at their peak.

This heartwarming tale encourages everyone to get involved, whether through volunteering, fostering, or simply spreading the word about animals in need. For those inspired by Harmony’s journey, consider donating to the Loudoun Community Cat Coalition. Your contributions help provide food, shelter, and medical care for countless animals like Harmony, ensuring that they too can experience the warmth of a loving home.

Every act of kindness makes the world a brighter place. Together, we can create a community where everyone—two-legged and four-legged—feels the joy of the season. Wishing you all a heartwarming holiday filled with love and kindness!

Mariam Al-Majid is a first generation Afghan American citizen residing in Loudoun county. A thinker and truth seeker.