The Power of Kindness: Why Your Actions Matter More Than You Know

 

The Power of Kindness: Why Your Actions Matter More Than You Know

A Personal Experience of Unkindness

Recently, I was in a meeting with other ladies and sat next to someone whose body language, lack of acknowledgment of my presence, non-verbal cues, and unwelcoming response to my simple greeting screamed, “You are not welcome here.” The feeling was numbing and gut-wrenching. In that moment, I felt small, invisible, and unwelcome.

I owned my feelings and processed the experience, and in doing so, I realized just how much our words, actions, and even silent gestures can impact others. That day reminded me more than ever of the importance of treating people with kindness, respect, and genuine care. I never want anyone to experience the isolation or hurt I felt that day, and it reinforced why kindness matters so profoundly.

Kindness as a Choice

Kindness is not just about avoiding harm. It is about actively making others feel seen, loved, and valued. Throughout my life, I have encountered people in every aspect of my life, family, church, community, and professional spaces, who have represented the worst of humanity. They have hurt me, my family, my friends, and even strangers through words and actions that I would not dare repeat. Most often, these individuals never returned to acknowledge their harm, offer an apology, or create space for healing. The wounds from those experiences can run deep and linger if we allow them.

Yet, along this journey, I have also met incredibly kind and sweet souls, people who embody love, truth, compassion, grace, mercy, and goodness in ways that inspire and uplift. These are the moments and the people I consciously choose to focus on, even as I continue the work of healing from the darkness I have seen and endured. 

Personal Stories of Kindness That Shaped Me

Some of my earliest and most enduring examples of kindness shaped me into the person I am today: 

•   My mother and grandmother, though their lives were not easy, always treated people with love and generosity, welcoming strangers as family.

   •   My father, though not perfect, had a way of making people feel seen and loved whenever he was around. 

   •   When I came to the Lord at a young age, Pastor Gallimore and Sister Phillips went out of their way to make me feel loved and welcomed.

   •   Sister Elsie consistently performed quiet acts of kindness that left a lasting impact.

   •   My high school teacher, Ms. Muir, went above and beyond to care for me and my friends—inviting us into her home, making us meals, and even helping us with our hair. She saw us beyond the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on my heart.

These examples taught me that kindness is both an action and a choice. It is something we can actively practice every day.

Why Kindness Matters: Research and Faith

Research shows that acts of kindness have measurable effects on both the giver and the receiver. Studies indicate that performing acts of kindness can increase happiness, reduce stress, and even improve physical health. When kindness is extended, it creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to act with love and compassion. Choosing kindness has the power to change lives, sometimes in ways we may never see.

The Bible also reminds us of the importance of kindness and compassion:

   • “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

– Ephesians 4:32

   • “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” – Proverbs 3:27

   • “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1

These verses reinforce that kindness is not optional for those of faith. It is a reflection of God’s love, meant to be extended to all, even when it is hard, inconvenient, or unrecognized.

Choosing Light Over Darkness

It is easy, when hurt runs deep, to let bitterness, anger, or resentment take root. But I encourage you not to become the darkness you have endured. Instead, choose light. Choose love. Choose hope. Choose peace. Choose joy. Choose kindness. And most importantly, choose Jesus.

Every act of love, no matter how small, is a deliberate choice in a world that can feel cold and indifferent. By choosing the light, we create ripples that heal not only ourselves but also the lives of others, often in ways we may never fully see. Let your life be a testament to goodness, even when it is hard, even when it seems unnoticed.

Kindness Beyond Your Comfort Zone: Inclusion as an Act of Love

Today, I challenge you to step outside your comfort zone and represent Jesus by showing kindness to people and in spaces where you might not naturally interact with them. True kindness and love are not limited to those who look like us, think like us, or share our experiences. If your circle only consists of people who mirror your own background or beliefs, ask yourself: Are you truly practicing inclusivity?

Inclusion itself is a powerful act of kindness. It is an intentional choice to recognize the value and dignity of every person, even when it feels unfamiliar or inconvenient. When we actively reach beyond our usual circles, we create opportunities for connection, understanding, and grace. Small gestures of inclusion, such as listening, acknowledging, welcoming, and caring for someone different from you, reflect the heart of Christ and have the power to transform relationships and communities. 

For more on this important topic, I invite you to read my full blog post, “Love in Action: Embracing Cultural Sensitivity in Every Space,” and explore practical ways to extend kindness and love beyond your comfort zone.

Some Practical Suggestions to Practice Kindness Every Day

   •   Greet people warmly and genuinely

   •   Offer help without expecting anything in return

   •   Listen without judgment

   •   Share words of encouragement or appreciation

   •   Look for opportunities to see the humanity in others, even strangers

   •   Go out of your way for someone who cannot repay you

Reflection Questions

1.   Think of a time when someone’s unkindness hurt you deeply. How did it make you feel, and what did you learn from that experience?

2.   Who in your life could benefit from your kindness today?

3.   How can you choose light instead of darkness, even when others have hurt you?

4.   In what ways can small acts of kindness ripple into larger impacts in your community or workplace?

5.   How does choosing kindness and grace reflect your values and faith?

6.   How can you step outside your comfort zone to practice kindness and inclusion this week?

7.   Reflect on a time when you were the recipient of kindness and how it impacted you

Summary

Kindness and love are deliberate choices that hold transformative power. Even when unkindness surrounds us or our efforts go unnoticed, choosing to act with light, love, and grace can heal, inspire, and ripple into the lives of others. Our words, actions, and even silence have the power to wound or uplift. Choosing goodness, extending inclusion, and reflecting Christ’s love is never wasted.

Call to Action

If this message resonates with you, I invite you to share it with others. Let us create spaces where kindness, love, inclusion, and light are the norm. Keep showing up, keep extending grace, and keep being a quiet hero. Read the full blog post on my website to dive deeper and explore how your everyday choices can make a lasting difference. 

With Love,

Waydia 🛐🩷💜