A Vote for Practicing Kindness

Practicing Kindness – My Favorite Story

I have a favorite story for practicing kindness. My four-year-old grandson Luke and his two-year-old sister Lily, were climbing down a rocky path, last week, while we were out hiking in southern Illinois at the “Garden of the Gods.” Lily stopped, looked back and noticed that Luke was in a precarious position to make his next step down the steep trail. When she saw that he had hesitated she reached out her hand to help him. There was no way Lily’s small body could support Luke, who weighs twice as much as she does. Yet, neither of them seemed to be aware of this hazard as he grabbed her hand for assistance. Her handhold gave him the confidence and moral support he needed to continue. This kind and loving gesture created a miracle as they continued down the path safely – still holding hands. Lily was practicing kindness towards her older brother – and it didn’t go unnoticed.

Today, unrest hangs heavy in the air. It’s upsetting and concerning. Yet, just when I think America can’t survive all the turmoil, I am encouraged by the growing trend of practicing kindness. I used to balk at the idea of trying to solve world problems by holding hands, sitting around, and singing “Kumbaya.” Love and kindness seemed trite, unhelpful, and too simplistic. But through Lily’s actions last week I could see the power of kindness and it has helped me hold tight to a truth expressed well by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose words have been immortalized when they were carved into stone at his memorial in Washington D.C. He stated:

“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love, will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than an evil triumph.”  – Martin Luther King Jr.

A Vote for Kindess

I celebrate the idea that truth and love are so powerful they will ultimately emerge victorious. God’s goodness prevails when we are kind to one another. Today, you and I can stand together for truth and love by casting a vote for kindness. I don’t know what will happen next month on November 3^rd as each of us votes our conscience, but what I do know is that no matter how the election turns out, I don’t have to allow fear and anger to govern how I feel or behave. I can show forth love and kindness to one another as I continue to seek truth. This brings great comfort to my mind and heart.

Practicing kindness is a simple yet significant power that allows each of us to make a difference for good. It’s an amazing feeling to know I have some control of the world around me by choosing kindness! Thank you to all of you who are leading the way; your impact is felt.

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I invite you to listen to a favorite song of mine that I learned as a child. It’s about following the teachings of Jesus in showing love and kindness to one another. Its words are a message for all. (Arrangement by Emily Brown – Words and music by Janice Kapp Perry) Click here to enjoy!

Lily and Luke

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