Articles

Part 1: Kindness

Sat 14 Sep 2024

 

… or how to express deep compassion that transcends ordinary human concerns!

 

Kindness isn’t the result of an action; it’s first and foremost a state of mind. Sometimes innate, often acquired through parental example and one’s educational or social environment, its enduring presence in your mindset and actions is what makes you a “kind” person.

 

Are you a compassionate person? Good question. In your own opinion, the answer will often be “yes.” And yet… These days, it can sometimes be difficult to encounter kind-hearted people in everyday life, whether on a personal or professional level. The people around us often think only of themselves and don’t always look out for others.

 

  • Caring people know how to share everything

The first thing that comes to mind is sharing information  : passing on knowledge, experiences, and expertise so that people—whether friends or casual acquaintances—can benefit from the advice offered.  

 

The second is sharing goods or services. You’ve done it at least a hundred times: lending a hand, lending items, lending money… 

 

This is done without expecting or hoping for anything in return—at least in theory. Deep down, we often hope for a “thank you” or some acknowledgment. Life is such that, despite the disappointments of not receiving anything in return, we must remain optimistic. Sometimes, many years later, in unexpected ways, your actions do come back to you!

 

A truly kind person will not be frustrated or negative toward those who do not “reciprocate” or say anything. They will continue to look out for your well-being. Don’t overstep your boundaries either: kindness does not mean weakness.

 

  • Caring people are naturally respectful

Caring people, in addition to being good listeners, are consistently respectful. Polite phrases, tact, and thoughtful gestures convey a non-confrontational attitude and provide reassurance through a gentle, serene demeanor—yet one that is also strong in its convictions and its capacity for understanding and action.

 

  • Compassionate people know how to take a back seat

Many people like to make a good impression and attract attention. Compassionate people, however, demonstrate much greater modesty  : they approach topics in a calm and measured way, without putting themselves forward.  

 

They won’t put themselves out there to attract attention because that doesn’t interest them; they’ll prefer the exchange and its substance over simply looking good. For them, that holds no interest.

  • Kind-hearted people have an innate understanding of what compassion and mercy are

Through their compassion for all forms of suffering, their patience in the face of slow-moving discussions or problem-solving, their generous forgiveness toward those who make amends, and their hearts that open to those in need… yes, anyone who feels the distress of others and knows how to offer comfort  is truly compassionate!

 

The concern for the technical, physical, and spiritual needs of those who suffer is encompassed by the gift of mercy. Those who possess this gift have great empathy for others in their trials.

 

Mercy does not abolish fault but rather resentment; not memory but rather anger; not struggle but rather hatred. It is not love itself, but what takes its place when love is impossible, or what prepares the way for it when it would be premature.

 

  • On the Right Balance of Things

Seeing you succeed, overcome your difficulties, heal, and grow… is the only true reward for those who show kindness. Have respect for them, and in turn, strive to be “kind” yourself!