Kindness

Mark Twain said that “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.”  Kindness is a theme that runs through cultures like a river of water in the desert.  A simple act of kindness can save someone from despair and nourish a person’s sense of self worth.

Kindness is considered a virtue around the world, something to strive for and something to give freely. 

“All of the Torah can be summed up in one word: Chesed.  It means kindness. “ Rabbi Dr. Arthur Segal [Jewish]

“Show kindness and mercy to all beings, and realize that the Lord is pervading everywhere; this is the way of the enlightened soul….”   Guru Granth Sahib {Sikh]

The Dalai Lama says “When we feel love and kindness towards others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace.” And scientific studies support this view.  People who commit acts of kindness are happier and have a better sense of well-being.

I think kindness is a natural reaction that can be nurtured within our selves and our society.  Don’t be afraid to commit an act of kindness.  It shows empathy towards others and a connection to those around us.  Kindness spreads from one person to another.  It is contagious. 

My favorite quote on kindness is this one - “Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle.”  Plato [428BC-347BC]

Life is tough for all of us.  We are all of us fighting our own hard battles.  A small act of kindness can let people know they are not alone and the world isn’t such a bad place after all.