KINDNESS ALL AROUND

Today’s Word from Deacon Amy… 

Kindness has been a big topic around here lately. We have a group meeting on Fridays to discuss a book about kindness, which has sparked conversations in several other places as well. I have a favorite t-shirt that has the words “Choose Kind” boldly across the front. I receive a lot of smiles and comments when I wear that shirt.

Kindness is important to me. It is something that I try to instill in the teenagers that I am blessed to spend time with. And, every once in a while, I get to see those lessons paying off.

As we were nearing the end of our high school youth group time last week, one of the boys suggested that each person there say one nice thing about everyone else in the gathering. And, you know what? They did it!

Seven teenagers, sitting in a circle, saying nice things about each other. It was amazing!!

Some of the compliments were fairly shallow – “You’re good at wearing shorts every day.” Some were very deep – “I’ve known you for most of my life, and I’m really impressed with how much you’ve matured over the last couple of years. You’re really fun to be around.” – “I know you have a lot of hard things going on in your life, but I appreciate the way you show up every week, and participate in the group. You have a great sense of humor.”

As I drove home that night, I had to wipe away the tears. I was so proud of these kids! They didn’t have to do that. They could have easily said no, or shrugged off the idea. But every single one of them said something nice about every single person there. They even said nice things about me! Compliments from teenagers are highly valuable.

What a beautiful practice. Maybe this is something we can all incorporate into our lives – giving out compliments. Not with every person we encounter, but with at least a couple of people every day. Tell the bus driver that you love his smile, or the grocery store clerk that her fingernail polish is beautiful. Tell the bank teller that you appreciate how efficient they are, and wish them a beautiful day.

On Sunday, March 24th, we have the opportunity to hear from Donna Cameron, the author of “A Year of Living Kindly.” She’ll be speaking at Trinity at 2:00. The afternoon will include a speech from her, some time for conversation in groups, and then an opportunity to discuss with the larger group.

I’m looking forward to hearing from Donna, learning about her desire to write about kindness, and learning how we can be more intentional about spreading kindness in our own little corners of the world.

Please join us!

Deacon Amy
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