Is Kindness For You?

Kindness leads to many of the virtues to which we desire, as humans. Kindness is encouraged by every major belief, by leaders as diverse as the Dalai Lama, who says that kindness is his religion. When we focus on kindness, we ourselves becomes kinder. Our world becomes kinder. Kindness can lead us wherever we want to go- to a happier life, to being more connected to our faith, belief or religion, to enlightenment, to making a difference in this world.

The reasons for being kind are innumerable. Here are just a few:

Kindness broadens our perspective: In order to be kind, we have to pay attention to what is happening around us...see the bigger picture. As we notice more things and help others, we get a glimpse of other ways of looking at things. The more we know, the more we know.
Kindness gains respect from others: By recognizing someone's need for help and acting on it in a compassionate manner, allows others to see a difference in you. Kindness displays your values.
Kindness makes us great company: One of the most common responses to kindness is gratitude. People appreciate what we've done for them. People will want to be around us and will actually seek ways to be “in our circle”.
Kindness aids in health: Kindness begets kindness, openness, health and reduces the effects of stress on our bodies and our hearts.
Kindness creates kindness: When you are kind to others, the impact of your action doesn't stop there. Many times the person receiving your kindness are inspired to be kinder to others they encounter.