Acts of Kindness begin in the heart and thus kindness has been known to soften hearts, lift spirits and it helps mold our relationship to others. The value of our best life is not measured by the material possessions we've acquired, but by the hearts we've touched, because who we are is far more important than what we have. The gift of kindness reveals to us that everything we do affects not only our own life, but touches other lives, too. When we put some kindness into the world, we'll like what the world gives back. Small acts of kindness have created many ripples and have probably done more good for the world than all the religious zeal, eloquent words or education of the masses combined.

Kindness may be simple like saying “please,” “thank you,” “excuse me,” or “I’m sorry.” It may be offering a helping hand, patiently waiting your turn, returning a phone call or favor, or even cheerfully responding with a smile. Kindness is also characterized by being generous with your time, money, resources and a willingness to help. “Kindness,” as the Greek philosopher Sophocles said, “gives birth to kindness.” It is, as American writer/philosopher Mark Twain notes, “The language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.”

The virtue of kindness is part of a growing process. We don't just get up one morning and say, "Beginning today, I'm going to be kind." Even the best intentions fail if we rely on our own strength. The Bible calls kindness a fruit of the Spirit, because it cannot be grown effectively without the Spirit's continuing work of love in our lives.

We feel a deep sense of satisfaction in showing unconditional kindness to another, for kindness is as much a gift of conscience as it is of one’s time or words. I believe there are three kinds of gifts: the gift of material resources, the gift of helping people rely on themselves, and the gift of non-fear. Perhaps the greatest gift in a troubled world is that of helping people not to be destroyed by fear caused by social injustice, oppression, exploitation, lack, violence, or loss of dignity.

When we engage in the many forms of kindness, we are bound to feel gratitude for life. Our gratitude will mirror a courteous and reverent approach to make life better: for our self, others, and Earth. Our gratitude may also reflect our attempts at living modestly and with humility: causing no unnecessary harm and living simply so that others may simply live. One of the easiest ways to be kind is to consider the qualities of character that make us a friend to others, a guest wherever we may be or travel, and a host to those who meet our acquaintance and come to our home.

By showing courtesy as a friend, guest and host to others and to nature itself, we are also extending our gratitude for their existence. Such gratitude is like a hummingbird enjoying the nectar without bruising the flower.

Kindness and gratitude is a well of sustenance worth visiting each day. The nectar of kindness is a sanctuary for the heart, a refuge for peace of mind and peace given to others, no matter how large or small the gift. Contemplate these words of Mother Teresa: “We cannot do great things; we can only do small things with a great amount of love.”

Blessings dear friends and thank you for your kindness, Christina