72. Gratitude for Kindness

Surprisingly, kindness is a subjective experience. ‘Being cruel to be kind’ and ‘kindness isn’t a weakness’ are some of the contrasting thoughts I have come across over the years.  Reflecting on the many acts of kindness I continue to encounter and remain grateful for, I have observed the reciprocal pleasure experienced by both the receiver and giver. Since my sight loss, I notice people’s increasing willingness to help me. Perhaps this is because they don’t see me as a threat (even when I am carrying a cane)! In my opinion, a kind person shows that they have achieved a life of high integrity, who feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. 

On the other hand, I remain sensitive to aggression. Whenever possible I try to avoid hostility and disagreement in my dealings with people.  I believe that through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation, more beneficial results are achievable.  Hence, it is disturbing to listen to the confrontational behaviour in our politics and aggressive interviewing language used by many journalists, including in social media. How can progress be made when the ego-centric minds of people in power, seem to be incapable of thinking about the greater good of all? Fortunately, there are grass-root level pockets of growing integrity in most areas of life, where care, respect and consideration hold value.

Generally, aggression comes from a wounded space because many generations have experienced deep pain. Lately though, I have seen people heal and make personal progress…when they are able to release old wounds through various gentle methods. Achieving this space of wholeness and peace, allows us to relax into a being of our highest potential. Once the quotient of compassion and kindness increases in the world, this will bring changes towards a more benevolent society.