being kind even when we disagree

When the pandemic started, the media flooded with inspiring commercials, supportive messages from world leaders, and individuals joining forces to beat this terrible virus. It really felt as if we were all coming together and putting aside our differences to overcome this huge obstacle. ​

Have we lost all of the kindness and understanding we gained during quarantine? I believe kindness is the most important trait we need to cling to during tough times. There is so much destruction and chaos happening in the world already. A cruel and hateful attitude just adds to the already burning fire of things we cannot control. 


I’ve noticed over the years that hate and cruelty most of the time evolves from lack of understanding of the other person’s situation and/or mindset. Misunderstanding is the root of all hate.  A quote I cling to says: “Don’t hate what you don’t understand.” I can relate to this as sometimes I think negatively toward people who I believe are acting in a way I would not personally act. When this happens, I simply try to put myself in their shoes. This makes me realize that this particular individual could be experiencing something completely different in life that makes them act this way. They could be going through hardship. They may have been raised differently than I. They might not even realize that their actions could be offending others.


Once I try to understand a person’s situation by putting myself in their shoes or asking them why they are acting a certain way, I can hear their side of the story and try to come to an understanding with the person. I have found it much more efficient to come from a place of curiosity instead of a place of criticism. 


If you try to put yourself in their shoes or ask them to explain, and they become defensive or criticize you, then just know that they could be coming from a place of misunderstanding as well. Once you accept that as the reason for their hate/cruelty, then it is easy to respond from a place of kindness. 


It is also important to participate in activities throughout the day that boosts our overall mood and sets us up for success in practicing kindness such as: 


· Getting enough sleep
· Eating foods that boost mood and overall health 
· Exercising! This is a big one. 


To create change and kindness in the world, we must start with ourselves. If we start by evaluating why we feel negative toward someone and try to solve it, then we can expand this kindness to our community. If everyone would take this step, the world would be able to eventually communicate and solve problems with kindness and love. 


How do you practice kindness daily? Send me a message, and let’s keep the conversation of kindness going!