I Believe in Kindness

Kindness is a quality characterized by being empathetic and generous without expecting anything in return.

I believe kindness is more than niceness.

Biblically, kindness is described in deeper and fuller dimensions.

The Old Testament uses the word “hesed” to describe God’s 

loving-kindness and faithfulness.

And the prophet Micah 6:8 gives a call to action:

“Do justice, love kindness, walk humbly with your God.”

The New Testament presents Jesus as the embodiment of kindness.

Jesus was motivated by justice.

He reached out to the marginalized, the poor, the sick, and the hungry.

Kindness and compassion were extended to all, regardless of social status and religion. His love healed and connected people.

The type of love Jesus extended was unconditional, selfless, and unending.

Kindness was a core principle.

And his call to us is found in John 13:34: “Love one another, as I have loved you.”

I believe our world needs kindness more than ever.

The increase in the world in violence, hate, prejudice, cruelty, and war need to be met by a response of love and justice.

Children, especially, need the healing power of protection.

So many experience gun violence in schools and on the streets.

Let us be that circle of love for them and for each other.

I believe it is not always easy to be kind to oneself and others.

Life is difficult 

Sometimes we need space

Or a mindfulness exercise of remembrance might be helpful.

Call to mind people in your life who have graced you with their warm presence, kind words, and unconditional love.

Cherish their memory.

Let their kind spirit strengthen and comfort yours.

I close with a reflection by  author John O’Donahue:

There is a Kindness that dwells deep down in things; it presides everywhere, often in the places we least expect. The world can be harsh and negative, but if we remain generous and patient, kindness inevitably reveals itself. Something deep in the human soul seems to depend on the presence of kindness; something instinctive in us expects it, and once we sense it we are able to trust and open ourselves.