“I am eager to explore the essence of kindness,” shares actor and filmmaker Joshua Ford.
At 31 years old, Ford, who hails from Finchley in north London, dedicated a month to anonymously leaving uplifting notes for unsuspecting Londoners.
“Last year was quite challenging for me and prompted some deep self-reflection,” he explained.
“I wanted to embark on a kind initiative—one that allowed me to express my creativity and engage with others.”
“I have a passion for language, poetry, and the influence of words,” remarked Ford, who has featured in various films and series available on Amazon Prime.
“I decided to handwrite 100 small notes and scatter them throughout London—on the Tube, buses, and anywhere I could.”
The front of each card read: “Hey you, open me.”
“Inside, there’s a message of kindness along with an invitation to reach out,” he elaborated.
“Out of those 100 cards, I received responses from around 30 to 35 people.”
Respondents included visitors from Brazil, Spain, and Italy who stumbled upon the notes during their trips to the capital.
Ford later transformed this kindness initiative into a short film, incorporating reactions from those who found the notes.
“It was all about forging connections with those around me and feeling the support of fellow Londoners,” Ford reflected. “It was truly wonderful.”
“The project not only uplifted me, but it also brought joy to those who found the cards,” he continued.
“Moreover, viewers of the film also experienced that positivity. It was like a triple benefit.”
Eloise Skinner, a psychotherapist and author based in London, noted that performing acts of kindness can significantly enhance one’s wellbeing, even towards strangers.
“In Joshua’s case, there’s likely an expanded community aspect, since his kind gestures were intended to reach a broad audience,” she suggested.
This can lead to stronger community bonds, a sense of closeness with those nearby, and viewing oneself as an engaged member of the community.
“Biologically speaking, studies indicate that kindness can elevate levels of dopamine and serotonin, fostering a sense of improved mood—sometimes referred to as the ‘helper’s high’,” she added.
Ted Lawlor, who organizes wellness events, mentioned that the ‘helper’s high’ often yields “greater fulfillment than self-serving acts of kindness.”
“It seems Joshua experienced exactly that with his project,” said the 26-year-old from southeast London.
He recounted how helping others assisted him through a severe episode of depression in 2017.
“Transforming my struggles into a means for supporting others instilled within me a profound sense of purpose and gratitude,” he expressed.
“It reminded me that even during our toughest times, we have the capacity to make a difference—and that’s a gift for both others and ourselves.”
Mr. Lawlor emphasized that kindness is “contagious.”
“A single act can inspire others to pay it forward, creating a ripple of positivity and meaningful changes in social attitudes and behaviors,” he noted.
“Today, we witness a significant divide in society—some are losing hope in the system, their neighbors, or their future, whereas others are optimistic that changes may come in their favor.
“In such polarized times, kindness serves as a universal language that bridges gaps across race, religion, and culture, facilitating healing and fostering mutual understanding.”
Ford affirmed that he continues to leave notes around London for strangers to discover.
“I still do it now simply for my own enjoyment,” he revealed.
“It feels rewarding to be kind.”
