Being Kind is Kind of a Big Deal
Small comments can make a big difference when you lead with kindness.
“Be kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
Some people easily share their struggles and find it comforting to chat (or vent) to someone. Others may sport a smile and seemingly have not a care in the world. Keep in mind that some people are more private and are not comfortable sharing or simply don’t want to talk about their problems, but they may be struggling, nonetheless. That’s why the above quote resonates with me. We never know what those around us are going through. That is why being kind makes such a big impact.
Does it take effort to be kind? Short answer: No.
Being kind does not have to be some grand gesture. A simple smile or a wave does the trick. If you are more inclined (some may say more extroverted), engaging in a brief conversation definitely delivers a kindness vibe. If a longer conversation naturally flows, GREAT! Go with it!
Why is kindness important?
In the August 2023 article on the Mayo Clinic Health Systems website, Steve Siegle, L.P.C. Psychiatry & Psychology shares that kindness is:
- Good for the Body by increasing self-esteem, empathy and compassion and can decrease blood pressure and cortisol
- Good for the Mind by boosting levels of serotonin and dopamine, kindness can physiologically change your brain, producing a feeling of well-being and satisfaction
What to say when you are not sure what to say? These materials at your Yorktown Public Library help inspire you when looking for just the right words of kindness.
IN THE CHILDREN'S COLLECTION:
Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller
When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind? From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference--or at least help a friend.
ON THE LIBBY APP:
Channel Kindness: Stories of Kindness and Community (audio book) by Born This Way Foundation Reporters
Brought to you by Global superstar Lady Gaga and her Born This Way foundation, this book brings young adult readers inspiring and triumphant true stories of young people who did-- and how you--can make a difference. And how that difference was made through acts of kindness.
When You Don't Know What to Say: How to Help Your Grieving Friends (eBook) by Harold Ivan Smith
For those who have a friend that has been devastated by the loss of a loved one. When others care enough to rub shoulders with grieving friends and are willing to be inconvenienced, it requires someone to care enough to put aside cliché condolences and stick close through a long grieving process. An individual's grief can never be 'fixed'. But friends can wash a sink full of dishes, listen, go along on a cemetery visit. Sharing another's grief is not about 'fixing-it'- it's about showing up. Harold Ivan Smith, popular speaker and grief educator, guides others to respond with their heart. He shows tangible, meaningful ways to make a significant difference as one journeys through grief with someone they care about.
30 Days to Taming your Tongue: What You Say (and Don’t Say) Will Improve Your Relationships (audio book) by Deborah Smith Pegues
Who hasn’t sometimes struggled with saying the wrong thing at the wrong time? Certified behavioral consultant Deborah Pegues knows how easily a slip of the tongue can cause problems in personal and business relationships. That is why she has put together a 30-day devotional to help you tame that unruly member and turn it into a productive asset. With humor and a bit of refreshing sass, Deborah devotes chapters to learning how you can overcome the Retaliating Tongue, Hasty Tongue, Know-it-all Tongue, Gossiping Tongue, Belittling Tongue, and 25 more! Short stories, anecdotes, soul-searching questions and spiritually based personal affirmations combine to make each chapter tongue- and life-changing.
What if I Say the Wrong Thing: 25 Habits for Culturally Effective People (eBook) by Verna A. Myers
This book is a perfect handbook for anyone who is looking to develop the habits of culturally effective people. In this handy reference, you'll find answers to questions about all types of diversity issues and tips about how to practice culturally effective habits. And with the variety of suggested follow-ups and actions contained within it, you will better know how to handle your own situations. Many of these situations occur without us being "properly prepared" for them; reading these habits is like doing drills so you'll be ready. With this book they can be prepared and practiced at moving diversity forward.
Power Words: What You Say Can Change Your Life (audio book) by Joyce Meyer
Joyce draws from personal experience to illustrate how prayer and positive words can be used to overcome every challenge that stands in the way of fulfillment.
The Language of Kindness: A Nurse’s Story (eBook) by Christie Watson
Christie Watson spent twenty years as a nurse, and in this intimate, poignant, and remarkably powerful book, she opens the doors of the hospital and shares its secrets. In the neonatal unit, premature babies fight for their lives. In the pediatric intensive care unit, the nurses wash the hair of a little girl to remove the smell of smoke from the house fire. Through the smallest of actions, nurses provide vital care and kindness.
Kindness is in You (eBook) by Todd Snow
Kindness can be shown in many ways-by helping at home, being considerate, and supporting friends. Children can explore what it means to be kind in this engaging book, written in easy-to-understand language with vibrant and diverse photos.
Be sure to explore our catalog and the Libby app for even more reading options. If you would prefer to read the physical book, you can stop by your Yorktown Public Library and make that request. We work with other libraries and may be able to find the book for you using our inter-library loan program.
Kindness is not only about how you treat others. It is important that you are kind to yourself.
These materials from your Yorktown Public Library encompass the importance of self- care.
Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself (audio book) by Kristin Neff
Kristin Neff, Ph.D., says that it's time to "stop beating yourself up and leave insecurity behind.” This book offers expert advice on how to limit self-criticism and offset its negative effects, enabling you to achieve your highest potential and a more contented, fulfilled life with exercises and action plans for dealing with every emotionally debilitating struggle, be it parenting, weight loss, or any of the numerous trials of everyday living.
BONUS: This material is also available as an eBook.
A Smart Girl's Guide: Body Image: How to Love Yourself, Live Life to the Fullest, and Celebrate All Kinds of Bodies (audio book) by Mel Hammond
If you have a body, this book is for you! In these pages, you'll find everything you need to know about loving your unique self, staying confident through your body's many changes, and appreciating your body for the life it allows you to live. With activities, tips, crafts, and real-girl stories, this book is a feel-good reminder that all bodies are worthy of love and respect. Yes, that includes yours!
Another way to share kind words is by visiting the Words of Kindness board I created that is on display in the library.
The Words of Kindness board is filled with colorful notes that you can take to share with a friend or take one for yourself and place it on your mirror so you are reminded of those kind words every day!
Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Smiling at someone, holding the door, genuinely complimenting someone, or actively listening when engaged in conversation are all simple ways to brighten someone's day. Kindness can also involve more purposeful actions like offering help with chores, sending a thoughtful note or donating to a cause you are passionate about.
Whatever path you choose to add more kindness to your life, the materials at your Yorktown Public Library will guide you on your journey.