Quotes to make someone smile

What makes the world turn? Geographers and scientists may tell us differently, but throughout the centuries, famous figures from all walks of life have reminded us of our ability to help it go round through kindness. Royalty, movie stars, thinkers and philanthropists are just a few of the people whose inspirational words have encouraged us to be good to one other.

Here at Thorntons, we like to spread a little kindness and good cheer amongst our chocolate lovers, especially at this time of year. So, along with our mighty fine chocolate, here are a few quotes on kindness to keep your chin up on those less-than-perfect days at the office!

Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you. (Diana, Princess of Wales, 1961–1997)

No one will ever dispute the kindness of the late Princess of Wales. Lady Di reached out to the sick and underprivileged. These instructions came from royalty, so let’s follow them!

How lovely that everyone, great and small, can make a contribution toward introducing justice straightaway. And you can always, always give something, even if it is only kindness! (Anne Frank, 1929–1945)

These words belong to the keeper of perhaps the world’s most famous diary (which she called ‘Kitty’ and regarded as her best friend). Anne Frank wanted to become a journalist and later a famous writer when the Second World War was over. Despite the terror and hatred she faced, this inspiring teenager never lost faith.

A little thought and a little kindness are often worth more than a great deal of money. (John Ruskin 1819–1900)

If you wish you had more in your wallet or purse, don’t despair. Instead, take heart from the words above of the English art critic, social thinker and philanthropist John Ruskin. Many regard Ruskin as ‘the greatest Victorian’ – and the man even gave away his inheritance!

We think too much and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness. (Charlie Chaplin, 1889–1977, in ‘The Great Dictator’)

These epic words on kindness were delivered on the silver screen by London-born movie genius Charlie Chaplin. While the world was in turmoil, in the movie ‘The Great Dictator’ Chaplin reminded audiences of the human capacity to do good and urged them to act on it.

You know, gentlemen, that I do not owe any personal income tax. But nevertheless, I send a small check, now and then, to the Internal Revenue Service out of the kindness of my heart. (David Rockefeller)