Thanks to the Internet it has never been easier to be kind to others. “The world is built upon kindness,” King David says in Psalms. G‑d created the world with the attribute of kindness, and we help sustain the world with the kindness that we extend to others. Virtual kindness should not replace caring for others in our immediate spheres, and one must use necessary caution to ensure that all technology is used properly. However, what social media lacks in depth, it can make up for in scale and reach.

The following are some examples of virtual kindness that everyone can implement, which will leave a positive impact on the people in your networks.

1. Employment


According to Maimonides there are eight levels of charity. The highest level of charity is helping people earn a living on their own. Help friends and colleagues find a job by connecting them with potential employers or by giving them a good recommendation on LinkedIn. Did you enjoy a particular service or a product? Write a positive review on the vendor’s social media page.

2. Keep the Peace


Our sages in Ethics of the Fathers say, “Become a student of Aaron, love peace and pursue peace.” If you see a thread that is descending into a verbal fist fight, try to defuse the situation with a helpful comment, and don’t fan the flames of disagreement.

3. Get Well Soon


It is best to visit the sick and not merely call or send a card; however, when it isn’t possible to visit a sick person, a phone call is acceptable. A text message is less personal than a phone call, but it is appreciated by sick people who feel vulnerable, especially if they are only acquaintances.

4. Happy Birthday


Birthdays are a time to celebrate the arrival of our unique souls to this world and a time to examine what we have accomplished. Help others celebrate their special day and their uniqueness. Virtual birthdays, when packed with birthday wishes, can be an amazing experience. Invest 30 seconds once a year, and make someone feel unique. You can find out when someone's Hebrew birthday is by using the Jewish Birthday Calculator.

5. Sold


Someone you know is selling their home, car or bicycle? Like or share their post. It doesn’t cost you anything, and you may be the catalyst for the sale.

6. Laughter


The Talmud says that comedians who make people laugh are worthy of entering the world to come. One talmudic sage was famous for opening his lectures with a joke as it would make the students’ minds more receptive to learning. Making people smile is that important. Post clean and harmless funny stories and jokes that make people happy. The smile on the reader’s face may be your entrance ticket to the World to Come.

7. Create and Moderate Groups


Create groups and virtual communities to enable people with common interests, needs, professions or locations to mobilize, support and share knowledge with one another.

8. Life Cycle Events


If you observe the happy and sad moments of people on your feed, don’t ignore them. Acknowledge those events with a few kind words or even just a like. Train yourself to show concern for others. If you know the person well, follow up with a phone call or a visit.

9. Love Your Neighbor Like Yourself


The Internet is a powerful means to rally together to do good in the world, whether it is raising money for a charitable cause, supporting someone who has shared distressing news, cheering someone on for their successes or drawing attention to important issues. You can start practicing by sharing this article :).

10. Teach Your Children


Discuss with your children how to become responsible digital citizens. Saying “the Internet is waste of time” doesn’t absolve adults from taking responsibility for this aspect of our young people’s lives. Our children are digital natives and may spend many hours on the Internet. It is worthwhile discussing how to make the digital world a more positive (and safe) one for them.

11. Be Real


Don’t ignore your virtual friends and acquaintances when you meet them in a real-life setting. If you spend time reading people’s posts, invest a few moments of your time to say hello when you see them in person. Use your social media feed as positive springboard to keep in touch with old friends and to build new friendships and acquaintances.

Post your examples of virtual kindness…