Kindness- It really is always an option

Kindness. So simple and yet sometimes not my first instinct. I'm thinking the Dalai Lama has this one right..."Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." He has a point. Kindness is a choice. 

I'm also good with "My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness." Makes sense to me. No wonder the Dalai Lama always looks so chill and happy. He lives and breathes kindness. Life goals. 

I’m renewing my commitment to choose kindness. Over and over and over until it becomes the only choice I know. Sounds easy, but I know it’s not. 

In general, I consider myself a nice person. I try to help others. I strive to make those around me feel acknowledged and appreciated. I tend to think the best of people. 

But, am I always kind? Embarrassingly, no.

I certainly slip and choose the grouchy response or the crabby voice. Sometimes the un-kindness is directed at others...and sometimes it’s directed at myself. 

As a result of cracking myself wide open during the past four years, I’m more aware than ever of how it makes me feel when I’m not kind to others. It feels yucky. And my guess is that it doesn’t make them feel all that great either.

The same crummy feeling occurs when I’m unkind to myself.

When my inner voice speaks harshly or is critical, it stings. And yet...in this situation, I've created the unkind thoughts and then directed them at myself! What's up with that?

Kindness isn’t difficult. And I do believe that practice makes it easier.

Being kind is basic and fundamental.
Kindness is contagious.
And, let's face it, kindness feels good whether we're giving or receiving. 

Kindness can be found in the smallest act and also in the most grand gesture...but I think it’s the little stuff that really makes a difference in our everyday lives. 

We're conditioned to be nice on someone’s birthday. Or to turn on the kindness when someone's in a tough spot.

But what about all of the days in between? That’s when a dose of kindness really matters.

Hold a door.
Offer a smile.
Lend a hand.
Be available.

The Golden Rule still applies. Treat others as you’d like to be treated.

​Be kind. It’s cool.

Maybe think of one new way you can be kind to others today...go out and try it! And while you’re at it, choose a kindness to offer yourself:-)

Do you have a signature way of being kind to yourself or others?

Thanks for being here this month. Have an awesome Saturday! 
xo Kristen