Small acts of courtesy sweeten our lives and the lives of others. It only takes a moment to lend a helping hand. The Bible tells us to do good to others, but not so that everyone knows you have done it—we are not seeking some physical reward for our actions (Matthew 6:1-4).

Having courtesy adds politeness and enjoyment to life. Seeking to be nobler lifts us to a higher purpose of living—a level of interactions that shows love for a neighbor. Sharing our abundance, comforting those who mourn and standing by friends in their time of need are acts that lift our spirits as well as the hearts of those we help. It is by learning the joy of small courtesies that we develop an awareness to be ready for the greater ones.