In the
quest to create a gentler, more loving world, kindness is the easiest tool we
can use. Though it is easy to overlook opportunities to be kind, our lives are
replete with situations in which we can be helpful, considerate, thoughtful,
and friendly to loved ones and associates, as well as strangers. The touching,
selfless acts of kindness that have the most profoundly uplifting effects are
often the simplest: a word of praise, a gentle touch, a helping hand, a gesture
of courtesy, or a smile. Such small kindnesses represent an unconditional,
unrestricted form of love that we are free to give or withhold at will. When
you give the gift of kindness, whether in the form of assistance, concern, or friendliness,
your actions create a beacon of happiness and hope that warms people’s hearts.
The
components of kindness are compassion, respect, and generosity. Put simply,
kindness is the conscious act of engaging others in a positive way without
asking whether those individuals deserve to be treated kindly. All living
beings thrive on kindness. A single, sincere compliment can turn a person’s
entire world around. Holding a door or thanking someone who has held a door for
you can inspire others to practice politeness and make already kind individuals
feel good about their efforts. Smiling at people you meet—even those who make
you feel like frowning—can turn a dreary encounter into a delightful one, for
both of you. Every kind act has a positive influence on the individual who has
performed the act as well as on the recipient, regardless of whether the act
is acknowledged. Kindness brings about more kindness and slowly but surely
takes a positive toll on humanity.
Weaving
the thread of kindness into your everyday life can be as easy as choosing to
offer a hearty “Good morning” and “Good night” to your coworkers or neighbors,
a stranger on the street, or the grocery store clerk. When you commit a kind
act, you are momentarily disconnected from your ego and bonded with the
individual who has benefited from your kindness. Being fully present in each
moment of your life facilitates kindness as it increases your awareness of the
people around you. You’ll discover that each act of kindness you engage in
makes the world, in some small way, a better place.
Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan-Tatum have put together a great project called Post The Love. Encouraging positivity online, within ourselves and among each other. Click here to check out their blog and Facebook.
