Tybee Island business spreading positivity, one seashell at a time

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - It may feel like there’s a lot of negativity in the world recently, but Oakie’s Deli & Delights on Tybee is starting a new project in an attempt to spread some positivity instead.

It’s called “The Oakies Seashell Kindness Project”.

“There’s just been a lot of negativity in the world. And we just thought that it would be great to give someone, just even a random stranger, something to look forward to when they come in here”, explained co-owner Kayla Martinez.

Customers stepping into Oakie’s on Tybee Island will notice a lot more color inside. Positive messages, written on these shells fill the business, saying things like ‘the world is better with you in it’.

“The world’s just been feeling kind of heavy. There’s been a lot of chaos going on, a lot of negativity. I feel like everywhere you go, everyone’s against each other. And that’s not what we want here,” Martinez said.

Customers are encouraged to grab a seashell and write or paint a positive message. The project just started on Sunday and has already taken off.

“This basket was full, and now it’s almost empty. So, we need to grab some more shells,” Martinez said.

It’s a project the owners want to continue, as long as they can. It’s not just sea shells. Customers are also given a post it note with a question like “what are you grateful for today?” Those post it’s and their response are on full display.

“A little bit of kindness can go a long way,” Martinez said.

These shells will be left throughout the island and Savannah, hoping to spread joy and positivity to anyone who finds one.