By Nancy Virden (c)2025

Kindness is within our rights. There is no law against it; we can extend kindness whenever we want.

Receiving kindness is not within our legal rights. We cannot force or demand that our needs be met if another person does not want to become involved. No law requires that others be kind.

Probably the number one issue that causes stress and anxiety is a sense of loss of control. We may feel overburdened or overworked without a visible escape. Perhaps we feel trapped or helpless to improve our situation. We worry about the business meeting tomorrow, the doctor appointment, seeing old friends, or a change in our routines. We lack control or believe we do, and so we worry.

The good news is we do have choices. We can control, among other things, what we do with that worry time. Instead of focusing on what is unraveling, we can proactively demonstrate kindness to anyone.

If a neighbor has a virus, you could a) take them soup, b) shovel their snow, c) send an encouraging card or text, d) offer to run errands, or e) anything else you can dream up. If your church, school, office, or family has an upcoming event, you could a) provide supplies, b) offer to pick up supplies or give a ride to someone, c) organize a portion of the festivities, or d) attend with a smile. A family with kids would probably appreciate gift-wrapping help!

Kindness has no limits beyond what the recipient says. If someone says no, then don’t. If a person is sick, don’t take up their time or energy. Treat others the way you think you would want to be treated in the same circumstance. Remember your personal limits and offer the joy you feel. Giving naturally feels good.

One of the kindest acts is listening without judgment. Everyone needs it, and if you can offer a sincere prayer in Jesus’ name, do that too.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Galatians 5:13

 For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.

If you are feeling suicidal or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S., call 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. For a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room; in the EU, call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here.) Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. 

NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional and speaks only from personal experience and observations. This website is not intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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