I have found one of the saddest things in the world is showing kindness to someone, and having them be shocked by it. They are shocked because not only are they not used to people showing them kindness, but they are not used to seeing it at all. It is sad that we have to live in a world where kindness to a stranger or even a neighbor is shocking.

Sometimes it might not feel worth it to be kind, to show kindness to someone. Some might say that there are people in the world who do not deserve kindness. That is not true. Do not let the actions of others determine your reaction. Be kind to everyone no matter how they respond or what they have done. If you really understand the gift of kindness, then you won't keep it from anyone. You know you understand the gift of kindness, not only when you learn to share it with others, but also when you realize that your being able to share it is a gift to you.

Understanding the gift of kindness means understanding that being nice and being kind are very different things. You could say that being nice is the same thing, but it is not. Being nice is passing someone the mash potatoes at dinner or holding open a door. Kindness is giving something up that you want because you know it would mean more to someone else. Kindness is putting others first and yourself last. Being nice is just a gesture but real kindness comes from the heart.

Being nice is something everyone can and should do but kindness is something different. It's something more. It is going that extra mile for someone whether they are your friend or your enemy. Kindness isn't easy. It's usually at the expense of what you want or your own comfort. Kindness means so more though because it is harder.

I believe in kindness. I believe in forgetting about what you want and thinking about what others need. I believe that kindness is doing something for another person without expecting anything in return. Kindness takes something from you, something you might not get back. Kindness is something that you have to learn to give and that's what makes it so special.