For the Next Few Weeks, We Have a Choice to Make

First, Kindness Transforms Us Even As We Practice It

The most important aspect of intentional kindness is not what it does for others, but how it changes us. We suddenly see our own “kindness blindness”—those areas we were impatient, irritated, sarcastic, defeatist or distracted that we simply didn’t notice before! Sometimes that blindness even extends to unkindness towards ourselves.

Second, as we become less critical and more grateful, others around us change. Because kindness has a way of becoming the salve for many wounds.

Kindness sets off a chain reaction. It replicates itself. It goes viral. In a beautiful, miraculous way, it spreads by transforming those it touches so they become carriers and pass it along.

We tested an initiative called the 30-Day Kindness Challenge, that has since spread around the world. Many people described seeing the person they were being kind to suddenly become more gentle, caring, and attentive themselves! These people realized that they had become a sort of super-spreader: they were spreading kindness in all directions without really intending to.

We’re all remarkably influenced by the culture around us, living and breathing certain attitudes that then become our own. We pick up certain beliefs largely because of what others around us think. That is the power of influence.

Well, God says we have that influence too—with everyone we touch.

During this election season and beyond, we are influencing others. We can subtly contribute to the negativity and conflict that is already everywhere. Or we can share the antidote of kindness with every person we meet. And over time that kindness will transform and change hearts and minds, which will change the culture. Which means in the end, true kindness is far more powerful than any election could be.

Want to know more of the little things that make big differences in your relationships—whether it’s love, parenting, work, or friendships? Subscribe for more from Shaunti here!

And check out her latest book (co-authored with her husband, Jeff), Thriving in Love and Money. Because you need a better relationship, not just a better budget.

Visit www.shaunti.com for more.