The Power of Kindness

A Simple Gesture, A Profound Impact

Sometimes, it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. Whether it’s a friendly smile, a helping hand, or a thoughtful word, random acts of kindness remind us of the beauty and strength of love in its simplest form. Random Acts of Kindness Day is a heartwarming reminder that even the smallest acts of goodwill can change someone’s day—and, in many cases, change a life.

Over the years, I’ve experienced my own share of random acts of kindness. Each time, I’ve been surprised and touched by how deeply these gestures have impacted me. They have left me feeling full—full of gratitude, full of warmth, full of joy. A simple act can be a neighbour clearing your driveway after a snowstorm, the unexpected words of encouragement from someone who cares about you, or even a stranger in the car ahead of you paying for your coffee in the morning.

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I recently received a note from a colleague that pleasantly surprised me. They told me that I am a “quiet but powerful blessing,” and that I “bring peace” to those around me. Those words have stayed with me. In fact, my heart still feels full just thinking about that simple note. It makes me wonder why we don’t practice kindness every day instead of once a year.

Let’s take a look at how we can find kindness in our hearts year-round.

A Moment of Reflection: Seeking to Understand

Before we make judgments about others’ actions, it’s important to try and understand their hearts. Those who act out of frustration might be carrying invisible pain. Given the challenges we face in today’s political and economic climate, it’s easy to feel anger, especially when it impacts our families on a daily basis.

The Bible reminds us of this in Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Kindness is about looking beyond the surface to see the heart of a person, and forgiving them when they hurt us, even when we don’t fully understand their struggles.

Healing From Anger

Healing from anger can be a process, but with time and effort, it’s possible to find peace. Here are a few steps to help guide you on that journey:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

The first step in healing is recognizing and accepting your anger. Understand that it’s a normal emotion, but it doesn’t have to control you.

2. Take a Timeout

When anger begins to rise, take a break. Step away from the situation, breathe deeply, and give yourself space to cool down before reacting.

3. Express Your Feelings Calmly

Once you’re calm, express your anger in healthy ways. Use “I” statements to explain how you feel without blaming others (e.g., “I feel upset when...”).

4. Practice Forgiveness

Letting go of resentment and practicing forgiveness can lighten your emotional load. Remember, forgiveness doesn’t mean condoning hurtful behavior; it’s about freeing yourself from the hold of anger.

5. Shift Your Focus

Instead of focusing on what made you angry, focus on positive aspects of the situation or what you can learn from it. This shift can help you find peace and perspective.

6. Seek Support

Talking to a trusted friend, therapist, or church community can help you process your anger in a constructive way.

7. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Meditate on God's word, deep breathing, or even gentle exercise can help release pent-up emotions and bring you back to a place of calm.

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32

The Healing Power of Forgiveness
 

Forgiveness is another powerful expression of kindness. Understanding that holding onto anger and bitterness can only hurt you more, forgiveness is the key to emotional and physical healing.

The Word For You Today tells us to turn to the power of Christ-like thinking—where kindness and forgiveness go hand in hand. It’s not always easy, especially when the wounds inflicted upon us are deep. Whether the pain is unintentional or deliberate, the Bible calls us to forgive just as God forgives us, with kindness and tenderheartedness.

This isn’t always easy to do. It requires us to let go of our pride, our hurt, and sometimes, our right to be angry. But forgiveness, done with a kind heart, offers freedom from bitterness and brings peace, not just to the person we forgive, but to ourselves as well.

Commit to Letting Go

Healing from anger is a choice. When you feel it building again, remind yourself that peace is worth more than holding onto anger.

Choosing Kindness in Our Daily Lives

So how can we practice kindness in our everyday lives? The truth is, it doesn’t take much. In fact, sometimes it’s the little things—the small acts—that make the biggest impact. It could be as simple as offering a smile to someone who looks down, holding the door open for a stranger, or sending a quick note of appreciation to a friend.

When we choose kindness, we reflect the love and forgiveness that God extends to us every day. One simple act of kindness can create a ripple effect, spreading joy and peace not only for today but for a lifetime. As I go about my day, I’m also reminded to show kindness to myself—to give myself grace and embrace my imperfections.

Remember, a small act of kindness doesn’t just change someone’s day—it can change their life. So let’s choose kindness today, and every day.

Inspiration: The Word For You Today