The Web as Random Acts of Kindness (TED video)

It's easy to become disillusioned with the world, especially given the news media's preoccupation with dividing everything into two sides and pitching them against each other. The truth is, there is a kinder world online than might be obvious at first glance.

Think of all the people that edit Wikipedia for free, or share their knowledge in internet forums. The individuals that share inspiration and uplifting stories on Facebook or Twitter, or who put $10 towards a Kickstarter campaign.

In this TED video, Jonathan Zittrain, a social theorist, explores these random acts of kindness on the web and their impact upon the world. It's inspiring stuff.

Simple Ideas - Expanding Shoes that Help Millions of Children

The simplest ideas are often the best. That's certainly the case with Kenton Lee's invention, a sandal that will grow as a child's feet do, meaning that they don't need to go barefoot.

Known as 'The Shoe That Grows', the shoes will last around five years and can radically change the lives of children in impoverished countries.

Some 300 million children around the world do not have shoes, and many more have footwear that doesn't fit properly. This can cause problems with parasites, diseases and injuries. The Shoe That Grows project aims to help eradicate these problems.

20 Ways to Spread a Little Kindness, Right Now

We don't need to wait for kindness, and it doesn't wait for us. There are tiny acts that we can all make right now to bring a little more joy into the world. Whether it's putting an extra quarter in a parking meter, complimenting a stranger or keeping a promise, it all makes a difference.

This article from Anastasia Amour collects together 20 easy ways to create a better day for ourselves and the people around us.