The Power of Kindness

Small Acts, Big Impact: Practicing Kindness Daily 

In recent days, we have been hearing a lot about spreading kindness or participating in an “act of kindness” campaign. These initiatives are moving and can certainly stir one’s heart and even draw a tear. Hopefully, these campaigns can be a means to scatter the authenticity of kindness to many people.  

Kindness as an Antidote to Envy 

Recognizing the good from these initiatives should also shine a light on the effects of kindness in our own personal lives. Kindness is the virtue to be cultivated if one struggles with envy, that is, with sadness or resentment toward someone’s possessions or good qualities. Envy is like a poison which disturbs one’s perception of reality. It is a sin we must carefully guard ourselves against, especially given the ease of social media or the internet, where we can readily compare ourselves or see what others possess.  

Beyond Niceness: The Depth of Kindness 

Kindness is more than being “nice,” as it goes deeper than an external gesture. It is shown through small acts as well as large acts. For example, if you are envious of another person, kindness is a way to redirect your emotions to a positive, constructive act. It can begin by simply saying a prayer for the person, as God already knows of your struggle. In time, you may be able to speak to the person or recognize a good quality in them. These actions can be difficult, but working internally to overcome envy will be a means of peace and joy.  

Finding Peace Through Acts of Kindness 

At the end of the day, none of us enjoy the negative, oppressive feelings of envy. So the next time you are encouraged to participate in a kindness campaign, seek to give yourself to it–as it will heighten your protection against envy.