On Nov. 13, we marked the 27 th year of "World Kindness Day," a chance to pause, reflect and ask: How does kindness really change lives? We then invited you, our readers, to share acts of kindness that left a lasting impression, perhaps even reshaping the way you see the world.

What you sent us was compelling, heartwarming and refreshingly unexpected, reminding us that goodness is alive and well in a world often overshadowed by displays of cruelty and grim headlines.

Do small acts of kindness really matter? We'll let your stories speak for themselves. (But the answer is yes. Always yes.)

Here are some of the highlights.

Teacher Steps Up

When I was in second grade, my only pair of shoes was worn out, with holes in the soles. At that time, my parents couldn't afford to buy me new ones

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