Is it true, is it kind, is it necessary, is it helpful?

The etymological root of the word kind traces back to kin or family, as in humankind or mankind. It's about recognising the person opposite you as one of your own. They in turn recognise you the same way. 

This reminds me of the westernised translation of Namaste, ‘The divine in me honours the divine in you.’

When we look at it through this lens, we see that a simple act of kindness is a statement about belonging. In being kind we attest to our belonging to each other. This is community in action.

When we only look for difference, we seperate ourselves more and more. And we create more division when we focus on the things that seperate us. Maybe this is why so many people feel lonely today.

I think the world would be a very beautiful place if we understood that we are all one big family. We would recognise our basic sameness, those basic human needs and desires that motivate us. At the same time, we could celebrate our differences, our individual strengths and weaknesses.

Kindness is cool! And it costs us nothing, but it’s worth more than gold. Who can you be a little bit kinder to today? Try the questions above when you feel that burning desire to have your opinion heard.