McNary: Let’s start a Kindness Revolution
By Loretta McNary
Intentional Kindness: A Balm for a Divided World
In an era where division and high emotions often dominate our daily lives, intentional kindness emerges as a powerful solution. While it might feel challenging to reach out with kindness amidst political tensions, social divides, and personal stresses, choosing kindness can transform not only our lives but the world around us. Intentional kindness requires us to actively seek opportunities to uplift others, bridge divides, and foster unity. This practice goes beyond mere politeness; it calls us to embody empathy, compassion, and love, especially when it’s hardest to do so.
This season, let’s explore how we can live more kindhearted and, in doing so, create a ripple effect of healing that simultaneously spreads from our personal circles to our communities and beyond.
Why Intentional Kindness Matters Now More Than Ever
Kindness has always been a bridge, but in times of division, it becomes a lifeline. Intentional kindness is the conscious decision to prioritize connection, understanding, and goodwill over fear, judgment, and division. By showing up with kindness, we model the compassion we want to see in the world, offering others—and ourselves—a much-needed sense of belonging and safety.
The power of kindness lies in its ability to disrupt negativity and create room for connection. It allows us to move past surface-level differences and recognize humanity in each other. Acts of kindness may seem small, but they have the potential to plant seeds of empathy and unity in a time when kindness is greatly needed.
Practical Ways to Be Intentionally Kind
1. Practice Mindful Listening:
One of the kindest acts we can offer is our full attention. In conversations, especially those that bring up opposing views, listen with empathy and curiosity. Instead of preparing a response or defending your perspective, try to understand the other person’s point of view. This small shift can create a safe space for both parties and nurture connection rather than conflict and division.
2. Write Letters of Appreciation:
Take a moment to acknowledge the people who have positively impacted your life. A heartfelt handwritten note, email or text expressing gratitude to a friend, colleague, family member, or even a stranger can brighten their day and strengthen your relationship. Writing letters of appreciation helps us practice gratitude, making us more attuned to the kindness around us.
3. Engage in Small Acts of Generosity:
Kindness doesn’t have to be grand to be impactful. Pay for someone’s coffee, leave an uplifting note, share a sincere compliment, or offer to help a neighbor. These acts might seem small, but they carry tremendous power to uplift others and remind them of the goodness that exists in the world.
4. Choose Empathy Over Judgment:
When we encounter people with differing beliefs or lifestyles, it’s easy to jump to conclusions. But instead of judging, try approaching them with empathy. Being mindful that they may be going through a tough time and extend compassion. Remember, everyone is fighting battles we may not see.
5. Create Digital Kindness:
Social media can often be a hotbed of negativity. Take a proactive approach by spreading positivity online. Share inspiring stories, leave encouraging comments, and resist the urge to engage in polarizing arguments. Making a single positive post or comment can shift someone’s day and show others that kindness is a choice, even online.
6. Practice Kindness Toward Yourself:
Self-kindness is crucial to practicing kindness toward others. Be gentle with yourself and treat yourself with the same care and compassion that you offer others. When we are kind to ourselves, we have more to give and are less likely to become reactive or defensive in challenging situations.
Book Recommendations for Cultivating Kindness
To inspire your journey, here are some wonderful books that explore the transformative power of kindness and empathy:
1. “The Book of Joy” by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
This book is a beautiful dialogue between two of the world’s most influential spiritual leaders. They share personal stories, wisdom, and laughter, showing us how joy and kindness are intertwined. Their reflections remind us that even in tough times, kindness can bring us profound peace.
2. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio
Although a novel for younger audiences, Wonder carries a powerful message about kindness, empathy, and seeing beyond appearances. This heartfelt story is a reminder to be kind, for everyone we meet is facing their own struggles.
3. “Radical Kindness” by Angela Santomero
This book dives into what it means to live with radical kindness and how small acts can lead to monumental change. Santomero offers practical exercises and stories to help readers embody kindness in their daily lives and create a positive impact on the world.
4. “The Healing Power of Kindness” by Indira Dyal-Dominguez
In this insightful guide, Dyal-Dominguez explores how simple acts of kindness can create healing and transformation in our lives. She offers personal stories and practical exercises to help readers live with greater kindness and intention. This book provides actionable tips on practicing kindness in everyday situations, showing how we can make a positive impact through small, compassionate choices.
5. “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown
While not solely about kindness, Dare to Lead emphasizes the importance of empathy, courage, and vulnerability. Brown’s research and stories encourage us to lead with kindness and integrity, especially in challenging times.
6. “Be Kind” by Pat Zietlow Miller and Jen Hill
A children’s book with a big message, Be Kind explores the many ways we can show kindness. It’s a great read for parents and children, reminding us that kindness can be learned and practiced at any age.
Kindness is Contagious
Choosing kindness is a way of being in the world that impacts everyone around us. When we act with compassion, we inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that transcends our immediate circles. We may never fully know the impact of our kindness, but rest assured, each small act contributes to a kinder, more united world.
In a season of high emotions and division, we can choose a different path. Intentional kindness, though seemingly simple, holds profound power to bridge divides, heal hearts, and reconnect us to our shared humanity. Let us be bold enough to practice kindness, knowing that every small act makes a difference.
In the words of Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Let’s make each other feel seen, valued, and understood—one act of kindness at a time.
Loretta McNary is a contributor to the desotocountynews.com website and social media channels. Be sure to catch “The Loretta McNary Show” on her channels, including YouTube, Facebook, her website, and others.
