Do You Speak The Language Of Kindness Fluently?

There are many languages in the world.
English, Cantonese, and Arabic to name just a few.
Also, there is the language of Love,
the language of Patience,
and the language of Thankfulness. 

This weekend I am thinking of things
I am specifically thankful for.

What’s on your list?

I have the usual stuff …
health,
home,
hubz,
happy children. 

But also electric lights and curling irons,
hot and cold running water on demand,
appliances that ease and expedite my life. 
For moms and dads and cars that start. 
For air conditioning and forced air heat. 

I’m thankful that I live in America.
I can vote,
continue my education,
and go to stores or movies
without much fear of being
blown up,
hijacked or
sold into slavery.

There is another language we must practice.
It’s kindness.

As a woman who has suffered loss,
I will tell you it’s the kindness of friends and strangers alike
that helped me make it through long seasons of sorrow.

Most were followers of Jesus,
but many were not. 
All of them shared my burden of grief. 
Their kindnesses helped make me well
and whole and happy again.

And I am thankful.

Kindness is a universal language.

As I reflect on the Thanksgiving holiday
I’m more sappy than silly. 
Thankful for all the kindness shown to me
and how it helped me,
encouraged me and
changed me.

Today, I hope you’ll join me to practice
speaking and doing acts of kindness
whether you feel like it or not.

It will change you,
it will change your recipient.

It will demonstrate the love of God
to a world of hurting and broken people.

Today, will you practice kindness?
Send a card.
Make a call.
Write an actual letter.
Invite someone to coffee.
Say something complimentary.
Pick up the check.
Notice a job well done and mention it.
Smile at strangers and smile at your family.
Always use please and thank you.
Listen attentively.

I’m sure there a million more that you can think of.
Exercise your creative juices and choose kindness today …
and tomorrow …
and the day after that …
and the day after that …
and the day after that.

You get the idea, right?

I am thankful for you!
Truly I am.

Happy Thanksgiving Weekend!

Oh, God, I’m asking that you would prompt us to act in kindness to stranger and family members. Inspire divine creativity and disposition to be kind always. Let us represent you to all. In Jesus Name … Amen.

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 NIV