(Today is World Kindness Day)
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” Proverbs 12:25 (NIV)
The blogsmith Jeffrey H. King recently wrote about the need for doing random acts of kindness in his post, Quote for 12/13/2020.
However, at least for him, it sounds more “plan”dom—as he watches for opportunities to say kind words to strangers who cross his path.
The efficient waitress, or the couple out in public with a well-behaved toddler (I know, it’s like seeing a unicorn)😉 are perfect candidates for what I shall henceforth refer to as that, “Mister King Thing.”
After all, says Jeffrey, “There’s no way to know how close someone is to the end of their rope.”
I often find myself writing comments on Jeffrey’s blog that are long enough to be posts in themselves. Sorry, brother. It’s a wonder you don’t edit my philosophical ramblings for length and clarity!
The morning of 12/13/20 was no exception, as, when I read the quote above, I immediately envisioned how convenient it would be if everyone had an emotional “gas gauge” pasted on their forehead. This would be super helpful for knowing who needs a kind word and who doesn’t.
However, Jeffrey and I both agreed–in our back and forth comments–that since the EGG (emotional gas gauge) hasn’t been invented yet, it’s really anyone’s guess how close someone is to running on fumes. Plus, who doesn’t appreciate a sincere compliment–even from a stranger?
Therefore, the “Mister King Thing” is ALWAYS the best practice.
Kindness Matters!
Here are a few of my favorite scriptures about the value of kindness:
“A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.” Proverbs 11:17 (NIV)
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.” 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (NIV)
Do you have a favorite scripture about the importance of being kind, or maybe a story about how you’ve personally seen the power of kindness at work? Please share!
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