Signs of the Times

with contributions from Louis Spilman

Louis Spilman in the News-Virginian Waynesboro, Virginia

One of the sweeter words in our language is "kindness." Kindness ... encompasses compassion, beneficence, unselfishness, goodwill and affection. Kindness generates a sense of well-being in the giver as well as in the recipient. Kindness assuages grief; helps dispel loneliness; and creates the conviction that we're wanted and needed. ... Kindness, among other things, involves smiling and cheerfulness. A smile attracts; a frown repels.

Kindness is one thing that we cannot give away. It always comes back to bless us. The greatest lever in moving the hearts of men is kindness. Kindness is the prime factor in overcoming friction and in making human machinery run more smoothly. If we are strong enough to do a kindness for someone who may have wronged us, there is no more certain way to bring about restitution. An act of sincere kindness, either by word of mouth or by hand, is the surest method of dissolving suspicion and misunderstanding.

Kindness strengthens the soul. The man who will overcome his frailties and prejudices toward another man who may have wronged him increases his own moral and spiritual strength. He truly rises above his mortal self.

Kindness is, indeed, the golden chain that binds people, as individuals, and society, as a whole, together.

When men are in trouble, they need kindness. When friction develops in a family, kindness is the greatest possible antidote. A kind word, a kind deed, a warm handshake, a wholesome smile ... ah, these are precious and divine.

From an item in Praying Hands Winchester, Massachusetts

When Charles Kingsley was asked for the secret of his exquisite sympathy and fine imagination, he paused a space and then answered, "I had a friend."

The desire for friendship is strong in every human heart. We crave the companionship of those who can understand. ... We reach the divine through someone, and by dividing our joy with this one, we double it, and come in touch with the universal.

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