Kindness, mercy, and letting go

 

Kindness is one of the most mysterious virtues. It is definitely a product of evolution but what a weird product it is!

Kindness is also very fuzzy. What is kindness, anyway? It is mercy, it is forgiveness, it is sympathy, it is overlooking of any past transgressions, it is doing someone a favor when they probably haven't done anything to deserve it.

I posted a quote on my WhatsApp status yesterday as a "thought for the day" that ties into this concept. It is by Victor Hugo, the famous novelist who wrote "Les Miserables," among other works.

"The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved -- loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves. - Victor Hugo (1802-1885)" 

The money part of the quote is, of course, the part where "we are loved in spite of ourselves." Ah! this quote is so deep! It captures so many different facets of our lives. Isn't that what true love is? True affection, selfless love, it boils down to kindness, isn't it?

Kindness doesn't "work" everywhere and in every situation. However, in my limited experience, a little bit of courtesy and kindness go a long way in making things smoother. 

Another interesting take on this issue is this quote from Lord Byron:

He who is only just is cruel. Who on earth could live were all judged justly? - Lord Byron, poet (1788-1824)

We want justice for others, but I think in our hearts of hearts, we all want kindness instead of getting our "just desserts," don't we? We all yearn to live in a kind world.

I think kindness and love are two superpowers that can turn one's relationships and daily encounters into something very pleasant and have the power to add sweetness to our lives.

Let's all be kind, to ourselves and others.