Light Reading for the Heavy Heart: Kindness Begets Kindness

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”

Dalai Lama

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often lose sight of kindness that isn’t reflexive, like holding a door open for someone or saying “thank you” when someone else holds a door for us. Going out of our way to show kindness is often overlooked. 

That said, we do hear about random acts of kindness: preparing a meal for someone who is sick, paying for coffee for the person behind you in line, or leaving an extra large tip for a great server. 

But how much better might the world be if we practiced intentional kindness? 

Every day set out with the intention to be kind and look for opportunities to practice kindness. Purposely compliment others. Bolster colleagues, friends, and family. Suspend judgment. Offer a smile or a kind word. Be thoughtful. Listen to hear, not to reply. Think of others first, and how you can meet their needs.

Random acts of kindness are wonderful. Intentional acts of kindness are even better.

Today’s Thought

I choose kindness. I choose to be kind to others in all situations. And I will be kind to myself.