I have a younger brother named Michael. He’s a junior in high school, smart kid, and a really good football player (starting defensive end on a very good team).
When I was visiting home for the holidays, I learned something interesting: apparently he bakes a whole plate of cookies for all his friends on their birthdays. And when he doesn’t know someone, but feels he should, he does the same for them as well.
Upon learning this, I thought to myself, “wow, that’s unbelievable.” I was really impressed, and even inspired. He’s busy just like the rest of us and does things like this for people.
~
Later, I of course started thinking about this. Was I ever that kind? Have I gotten overly-selfish?
Making your way out in the world can be tough. Sometimes you have to be near-ruthless to protect yourself and get what you need. And amidst all the elbows, calamity, pain, and weariness, I worry we become much colder people.
And very likely, this transformation is needless and counter-productive.
~
I’d been thinking about this for a while. And then something funny happened the other day….
So there I was, sitting at my computer, feeling lousy. I was tired from travelling. I had multiple personal issues spring up that were distressing. I also hadn’t exercised or written in a while which didn’t help. I couldn’t concentrate and didn’t have the energy to do anything I wanted to do, so I naturally started wasting some time on facebook. Then, rather unexpectedly, this message popped up on my screen from a grade school classmate:
Hey Kevin, you probably don’t remember me, but my mom and I saw you guys at christmas eve mass and were talking about back when we were in school. I remember once when I was upset you came over and gave me a hug at recess, I just want to let you know that it meant a lot to me and I’ve never forgotten it. I appreciate how kind you were to me.
Amazing. She remembered something that happened over 10 years ago, and thought to send me a message. And it came to me in (what is thankfully) a rare moment of sharp lousiness. It helped get me back up and at it.
~
Kindness is powerful, and we forget it. And we become a bit too callous.
Moreover, it doesn’t require great investments, just open eyes and a few moments. Something small to you could be large to someone else.
Remember?
-Kevin
1.17.2011
“Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness” – Seneca
