kindness

An action or a word intended to help others. Kindness is a strength of the heart, a good personal character that is built through thoughts, words, actions and habits. In Catholic doctrine, kindness is a virtue, a profound manifestation of charity.

Being kind is within us, every one of us. All of us are capable of being empathic. Jesus shows us this in the Bible. He is kind to the lepers, to the woman at the well, and those shunned by the outside world. He does not turn away.

What prevents most of us from showing empathy is pain. Past experiences of loss or hardship may guard our hearts and prevent us from being vulnerable and open to giving care or being cared for. But, we can always choose to cultivate kindness in big and small ways. Being kind is choosing love over fear. It is also mutually beneficial, expanding our hearts.

In every moment, we have an opportunity to choose kindness toward ourselves and others. 

Kindness is always possible.

Dear God, 

Thank You for Your kindness; I see it all around me. I see it in the sun rising every morning, sharing its warmth and light with everyone and everything. I see your kindness in the smile of a stranger. I see it in the volunteers that help put together food drives, toy collections, and serve selflessly to strangers alike. Today, I pray to You for any hearts who may feel they are not kind or unworthy of love. Dear Lord, please heal their wounded hearts so they can see they are loved, and cared for, regardless of the past. In Jesus’name I pray. Amen.

What is the kindest thing someone has done for you? How can you show kindness today?