The Power of Kindness
by Nancy Engle, October, 2008

"The greatest pleasure I know, is to do a good action by stealth, and to have it found out by accident."

CHARLES LAMB (1775-1834)

I can recount thousands of times over my lifetime where someone has said a kind word to me or performed a kindness toward myself without any expectations. However, in examining my daily routine I find that often I miss opportunities to pass along the many kindnesses that were given to me. Often we are so caught up in our own lives, work, shopping, preparing meals, cleaning, chauffeuring, etc., that we overlook opportunities to extend a kindness to someone in need, and there are times when instead of extending kindness we may extend judgment, frustration, anger, or even hatred toward another. An act of kindness, performed out of love, consideration, and caring, can be something as simple as giving someone a smile, holding a door, helping your child find a lost shoe without scolding, etc. We are blessed with numerous opportunities each day to practice kindness, but too often they become missed opportunities.

We are entering into the season of love and joy, of abundance and family, and sharing. I encourage everyone to consider extending an act of kindness with no expectations. Share your love and joy, your abundance with others. In doing so, not only does the recipient benefit, but we reap positive body, mind, and spiritual rewards. We experience feelings of good will, a reduction of stress, a clearer mind and a more joyous, loving approach to others. You can never know what impact your kindness will have on the recipient, those who witness the kindness and those who are told about it by the recipient or others. One act of kindness multiplies exponentially. When you get up each morning resolve to be kinder today than you were yesterday.


Action Plan:

1. Find at least three people a day in need of a kind word or loving thought. As you make a practice of seeking out opportunities you will find them.
2. Throughout the day express gratitude for all that you have.
3. Share something you have with someone in need.

For more information about Nancy Engle, Personal Life Coach & Handwriting Analysis at The Healing Way, click here.

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