the power of kindness

Never underestimate the power of kindness, especially when negotiating how we meet the day, the people we encounter and the circumstances that unfold. It alters the quality of our experiences, right down to the frequency of our energy. In a world with so many reasons to be fearful or feel a need for a measured response, kindness can be medicine.

This week we had some bureaucratic encounters. I was touched by the kindness and generosity of others trying to assist us. Then Friday we encountered a government teller who was incredibly hostile and had ugly, ugly, ugly energy. I’m sure you’ve met this person in your life. The one that makes you feel like you must have done something very wrong. The one that wants to scream NO to anything, not like that.., unacceptable.., insufficient.., take a number.., come back when you have you have your s…t together... That smile doesn’t work at this counter. This is the hungry lion at the gate determined to eat you before you can arrive at your goal. The one that looks like they live a miserable life and you are in their way, if not to blame for it.

We left this appointment so demoralized and deflated that I felt there wasn't enough sage in all of Italy to smudge away the very unnecessary film of negativity we left with. We took a few deep breaths and reached out to another government official we previously dealt with. She returned our call immediately and kindly said “no worries, this is what you can do.”

Is it so difficult to add an ounce humanity to how we communicate? What is the purpose of belittling one another, for any reason? Can't we imagine that everyone suffers enough in their world? Not only can the power of kindness make all the difference in the world, but every one of us, at any age has the ability to practice it. How we communicate with the one we meet in the mirror, the impoverished beggar on the street or those with some element of authority in our lives is completely up to us.

For the rest of the weekend, I have been reflecting on this experience. How fortunate that this is not something that I have a lot of experience with. I have met in my life and in my journeys so many amazing, thoughtful, considerate people in the world. For every kind and inspiring soul you meet, acknowledge them in you. It's like the contagious sneeze. This encounter with Mr Nasty made me really feel for the people that have to fight for everything in their life. Our request was abruptly denied on minor detail. Kindness is an important mindfulness practice. It brings you into the moment with a high quality of values. I am hyper diligent now on the act of kindness, even to spread the lightness effect of a smile. May it ripple to all those in need.

My father wasn’t off when he would remind us constantly in conflict resolution situations, “when in doubt, be the more generous of the two.” It will make all the difference, and not only to your experiences, but the quality of your life, your health and the world you live in.

Wishing you a day of sweet kindness and wherever possible, spread a little love.

Gisele