KINDNESS AND LOVE
"The first rule of kindness is to be kind to yourself" -Buddha
Do you struggle with being kind to yourself? Do you care for your overall wellbeing? How do you treat yourself during the day?
Kindness is an ingredient of love and our natural state of being. In order to genuinely express loving-kindness to others, we should be kind, compassionate and at peace with ourselves. Loving ourselves unconditionally is treating ourselves with appreciation, respect and knowing our innate worth. Kindness is reflected in consideration, compassion and leading with a soft heart and pure intentions.
Perhaps there are moments when negative self-talk and harsh criticism emerge in your thoughts as a result of someone being unkind to you for no reason, when you have made an error in judgment or when you respond unkindly to others. It is essential to take time to pause, reflect and be gentle with yourself. Buddha quotes, "Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates. Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?" This enables us to gain clarity and insight for self-awareness and self-correction to reframe the narrative and reflect loving-kindness. When we practice and embody kindness as our natural state, we can wholeheartedly express kindness to others. Buddha quotes, "Be an example... Show kindness to unkind people. Forgive people who don't deserve it. Love unconditionally, your actions will always reflect who your are."
Expressions of kindness are demonstrated in many ways such as a thoughtful gesture, compliment, good deed, a helping hand that uplifts ourselves and others. It can boost self-esteem, change a mood and make a good day even better. Simple acts of kindness to yourself and others can create a ripple effect for positive change. Kindness shows how we are living and being with ourselves in the world and with all we encounter.
Dr. Jean Marie shares Self-Reflective questions, Journal Prompts and Affirmations on Kindness from her book, "Love Mastery Devotion Journal: Weekly 21-Journal Prompts and Affirmations".
Share your insights, experiences and observations. Email: jean72farish@yahoo.com
Dr. Jean Marie closes with her excerpts on Goodwill and Self-Kindness.