“You cannot do kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The world can always use more stories of kindness. If you need more compassion in your life or want to spread it to those around you, read through and share these kindness quotes. Desmond Tutu, Maya Angelou, Princess Diana, and many more said it best in these “be kind” quotes.”
Astonishing kindness – the above came from the online Readers Digest post from which I took the Ralph Waldo Emerson quote. In the current world we live in, kindness seems to get lost. I suppose this is true throughout the ages, but there are times when contention seems to overpower all that is good and kind. If we let it do so.
One way to push back is to tell the stories of kindness however large or small. Like the Readers Digest compilation, these mini-documentaries remind us to look for and recognize these “kindness” encounters.
A Story Of Astonishing Kindness
This past week I heard that a cousin, who had been ill for some time, was not long for this world. I was aware of his battle so the news was not a shock. It was past time to go visit. Provided the location I could see him, I was curious that it was the home of his nephew by marriage and his boss. I called and made arrangements.
My cousin, his sister’s family (who had traveled some distance), and I had a good visit. Between his dozing off, we talked about past family encounters and aviation stuff. We prayed, cried, and shared scripture. It was obvious that this would be the last time I would see him this side of the veil, but we talked about our reunion on the other side.
I asked him to tell my Dad and his parents, my great Aunt and Uncle, hello when he sees them. I told him I would not say goodbye, but only “until next time” and I left him.
So where is the extravagant kindness? It is in the fact that people I have never met, but long-time friends of my cousin had taken him in at this time. They had made all the provisions for his care and his final arrangements. With his immediate family some distance away and limited in number, they stepped in. What a gift.
I left my cousin knowing he was in the loving hands of generous kind people. We have yet to meet these “strangers”, but I am in awe of their kind generous hearts.
What is your story of kindness today? Perhaps this week you can write down one story, however small, that touched your heart. Better yet, BE that story of kindness to another. I know I shall do so.