Bees buzzing, birds singing, crocuses and daffodils pushing through the earth are all signs of spring and they make one want to break into Frank Churchill’s song, singing:

Spring, spring is in the air.
I can feel it everywhere.
Oh yeah, spring is in the air.   

Why not share that springtime happiness, that energy, that hopefulness with someone who is lonely, sad, or tired? You will not only multiply your own energy and happiness, but you will also put the “spring” in someone else’s step.

Here are some of my favorite ways to care for others during the springtime:

1. Organize a group of friends to help an elderly neighbor with spring cleaning. Perhaps you can pick up their yard, offer to wash windows, or take out trash.
2. Invite a friend (perhaps someone who is grieving) to go on a walk. As you walk, remark on how good the sunshine feels on your face. Ask your friend, “What would you like to talk about today?”
3. Take a child on a “treasure hunt” to spot the first spring flowers peeking up from the ground.
4. Bring a bouquet of spring flowers to someone who is unable to leave their home very often.
5. Host a cupcake making party for a group of kids who could use a pick-me-up. Put out spring-themed cupcake toppers like jellybeans and flower-shaped candies for them to decorate the cupcakes.
6. Take in a baseball game with someone who is lonely. (It doesn’t have to cost much – check your local community for the Little League schedule and enjoy the enthusiasm of young athletes.)
7. Give someone your undivided attention for 20 minutes.
8. Is there a new family in your community? Invite them to a worship service or community event such as an Easter Egg Hunt; your local library will have a list of such events.
9. Write a note telling someone how they have impacted your life.

Proverbs 11:25 says, “Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed,” and Jimmy Durante reiterates that wisdom in his song, “Make Someone Happy:”

Make someone happy
Make just one, someone happy
And you will be happy too.