kind·ness /ˈkīn(d)nəs/

noun

the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.

We have been through enough for a lifetime these last few years. Between rising tensions societally and politically, the rise of a global pandemic, and once again the decline of the global economy, I dare say we have had a rough time of it. Tempers are flared, nerves are raw, leading us all to have less compassion in these difficult times. In all of these times, I am struck by one fundamental thing;  some people have been able to still be kind.

I have written largely on the opioid crisis, mental health awareness, and further the invisible disability community. I have also talked about what it takes to make a difference in those areas of life and the good change that it can bring overall. Now I speak to everyone.

I included the definition of the word because I feel compelled to point out a large part of the meaning of the word is lacking. Kindness comes from the heart, a desire to do an act or pledge to another person without the need or want of a return action. True kindness is given freely and without remorse or desire to have anything in return. It is amazing to me the amount of kindness lacking in today’s world.

Throughout my time in retail and even now in this pandemic, I have seen time and time again the causes of action that people bring to others to hurt someone. Harsh words and attacking someone for having a different belief in anything, because it is strange, or because I am having a bad day so you must suffer also. This points to a fundamental fact, we as a people are broken. Every one of us is flawed. I ran across a meme that summarized this well:

We all have been through trauma. This pandemic and those who have suffered greatly have seen what others experience for their entire lives. Not leaving the house, bed ridden, cut off from those around them. I have had more than one conversation with someone who told me they finally understood some of what I and others live through. It is horrible, but in this horror there is a way to break the hurt.

Kindness.

I have fought long and hard in showing kindness. I have been told many times it is a weakness that allows people to take advantage of you. I have heard it serves no purpose. Some even say it has no place in the cold, cruel world and it should be forgotten. No, I say. This is a redemption act. This allows the cycle of pain and suffering to end. It shows that while the world is harsh, you are standing up and saying “stop”.

This world needs kindness to recover. To quote one of my favorite books:

“I have found that it is the small everyday deed of ordinary folks that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.” ~ Gandalf (J. R. R. Tolkein ~ The Hobbit)”

#hugs to you all.

PS I dedicate this to my great grandmother who taught me about the kindness and gentleness that is missing in this world. Love you forever.