The definition of kindness is the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate, expressed through benevolent and helpful actions directed at others without expecting anything in return. It is both a natural human trait and a learned behavior that fosters stronger social bonds, increases
happiness and self-esteem, and has physiological benefits like lower blood pressure due to oxytocin release.
Kindness is contagious, creating a positive ripple effect, and can be cultivated through daily practices such as smiling, listening, and offering help.
As we all know, kindness seems to be in short supply these days. Where has it all gone? Why does it seem that those around us just don’t have the time or inclination to even offer a smile as a greeting?
I believe that kindness has been slowly dying for many years. We can blame Covid and the lockdown, which is what many people currently like to blame on most of societies ills. But I think it goes much deeper than that. When we substitute things for people, kindness begins to die. When we allow technology to get in the way of hearing and seeing people in real time, kindness dies a little more. Social media allows peolple to play hide and seek, just another way for kindness to wither.
Kindness isn’t hard and doesn’t cost anything of the giver. Kindness is intentional. Do it without expecting praise, or anything in return. It’s been said that if you make yourself smile, even when you don’t feel like it, you will start to feel better. It triggers the brain to release endorphins into the blood stream.
So, if we follow this line of thinking, than kindness can not only make the recipient feel cared for, seen, and supported, it can help you feel better. This is because it strengthens social relationships and creates a feeling of being connected to others.
So, the next time you see someone struggling to open a door with an arm full of groceries – step in. The next time you cross paths with someone as you are doing your daily routine – just offer a smile. The next time you see a need – stop and help. The more you make kindness intentional, the easier it becomes. Kindness can become contagious….creating a domino effect not just for the person in front of you.
Remember, it doesn’t cost you a thing and the rewards can be magnified. Kindness…we don’t have to let it die….we can help it grow and become part of the fabric of our society, once again.