Kindness is the quintessential, timeless, and universal value that has existed since the beginning of time and will continue forever. Numerous people struggle daily through poverty, war, and family issues. Kindness is that bright and prevailing light that radiates through those dark moments.
Kindness is the backbone of numerous values, such as camaraderie, honor, loyalty, respect, just to name a few. Those small moments of joy, such as holding the door for someone, as well as powerful moments of solidarity, such as donating generously in honor of someone’s life, are all rooted in kindness.
Age does not limit impact. Whether you are 15 or 51, you can still change the world, with the most powerful value at the back of your mind. Kindness has been ingrained into my belief system during my formative years, and I have learned that the smallest of gestures lead to the most powerful things. The best part is that it is never too late, and there is always an opportunity for kindness.
At the beginning of my first year at a new school, someone introduced themselves to me. I was quite nervous during that time. I did not know any one, nor was I familiar with the culture of the school and the teachers. I was holding onto old friendships and memories from many different places, not feeling grounded. However, through a gesture as small as introducing themselves to me, many meaningful memories emerged. Actions like this can silently shape an entire life.
I have many personal stories in which someone’s small act of kindness shined through my dark times. I went through a rough patch in my life when my body rejected everything I ate due to liver issues. At a party, the host went out of their way to give me something that I could eat without a stomachache afterwards. That act of kindness must have seemed so simple and insignificant, however it is one of the best things someone has done to me.
No matter what the odds, there is always room for kindness. Teenage years are some of the most formative and memorable moments of your life. Adults tell teenagers to make good use of it by studying hard and getting good marks. But they seldom talk about moral matters. People are so caught up in other matters that they forget about the most important, yet the most simple: kindness. Being extra patient, doing your best to get to know someone whom you have literally just met, or simply a question about them, all brighten up someone more than you think.
Our world is facing numerous pressing issues. Mental health challenges, substance abuse, and rising suicide rates are among the issues that urgently need to be addressed. However, you, the person who is reading this, can play a role in changing that. It starts with kindness.
You have no idea what someone is going through. The surface may show attitude, disrespect, and selfishness. However, below the surface may lie years of loss, rejection, and heartbreak. So approach everyone you meet with kindness. Smile, include, go out of your way. Instead of thinking about yourself, think about the other person. Ask what they want, what they like, start conversations. The smallest question may leave a lasting and meaningful impact on someone’s life.
Kindness can remind people that their life is worth living. And the best part about kindness is that it is the most simple, yet the most powerful, action a human could ever do. With kindness, anyone can change the world – including YOU!