Kindness: An Undervalued Strength in a Fast-Paced World

Could kindness be the key to happiness? We all need it; it affects us and takes on many forms: through gentle words, a caring look, compassion toward others, attention, warmth in comforting, understanding a situation, or a tender gesture. Kindness shines in these varied ways, bringing a touch of happiness to our often demanding and fast-paced world. Unfortunately, kindness is often misunderstood and associated with negative traits. Some see it as weakness, even naïve or cunning, and sometimes as an interested or manipulative act. Kind people are often labeled as "foolish" or "easy to take advantage of," as if their altruism must hide some hidden agenda. These mistaken judgments lead some to hesitate in showing kindness, fearing they’ll be seen as gullible or weak. Society's trend toward individualism has only worsened this misconception. In a world where personal success is prized, and each person strives to assert themselves, kindness can seem to many as a barrier to self-assertion. However, the capacity for kindness has immense power to alleviate suffering. A person who feels lonely or unwell can better cope with their struggles when shown kindness, care, and support. Surrounded by generosity, they find strength to face life’s challenges. But, although modern technology facilitates communication, it has also transformed how we engage with others. Today, people commonly connect only through emails, instant messaging, or virtual interactions. Human exchanges are often set aside for the ease and speed of screens. This compartmentalized way of communicating reduces true listening and understanding. Attention to others, along with courtesy and thoughtfulness—key aspects of kindness—are less and less visible in daily life. Yet, kindness is a generous, spontaneous, and, most importantly, free act. In a world where everything seems to have a price, why not incorporate more kindness into our lives? Kindness doesn’t cost anything but brings so much to those who receive it and, often, to those who express it. A simple gesture can brighten a dull day, inspire a smile where there was indifference, and alleviate loneliness. However, when someone is described as "kind," this label is often interpreted as a lack of strength or character. From childhood, we tend to use words about kindness with a hint of condescension. In preschools, parents encourage their children to be the best, competitive, and strong, sometimes at the expense of values like gentleness and altruism. In this context, kindness is seen as something that could make a child vulnerable or exploited. Parents frequently say things like, "Don’t let yourself be taken advantage of," or "People will use you if you’re too kind." These well-meaning words may lead children to think that kindness is a weakness, discouraging them from acts of goodwill. As they grow, children internalize the idea that kindness could make them targets for exploitation or misinterpretation. They become more reserved, less spontaneous in relationships, hesitant to approach others, and stop giving without expecting something in return. Sadly, this phenomenon diminishes the social fabric and reduces acts of generosity. Nevertheless, kindness, when genuine and selfless, is a valuable and noble virtue. It involves self-acceptance and acceptance of others, allowing us to open up without expecting anything in return. Kindness seeks neither reward nor recognition but simply aims to improve someone else’s well-being, provide support, or share a pleasant moment. In a world where self-interest often prevails, kindness becomes a precious quality, offering a glimpse of humanity. Being kind means overcoming the narrow limits of one’s ego, opening up to others, and sharing a bit of one’s light. By showing kindness, we grow personally and benefit from the positive impact we can have on others. Kindness, at its core, makes us stronger because it’s rooted in the ability to see the good in others, and this positive view reflects back on us. It’s a pity that such a quality is underestimated, as it has the potential to improve not only our lives but also the lives of others. It’s time to reassess our perception of kindness. Rather than seeing it as a weakness, why not see it as a strength? A strength that doesn’t assert itself through domination or authority but through its ability to inspire trust, soothe hearts, and offer authentic support. A kind person creates an atmosphere of peace and serenity, encouraging others to show goodwill in return. In a virtuous circle, kindness spreads, fostering a space where everyone feels respected, appreciated, and heard. Returning to more human and sincere exchanges also means rediscovering a form of communication that goes beyond screens and includes eye contact, smiles, and comforting words. In an increasingly virtual world, it’s essential to preserve the human aspect of our interactions. What if, simply through acts of kindness, we could change the world a little each day? Imagine the impact of these small gestures on those around us, whether toward a loved one, a colleague, or even a stranger. By making kindness a part of our daily lives, we contribute to creating a warmer and more inclusive world. Rather than viewing kindness as a weakness, we should see it as a precious resource, a trait that enriches our lives and the lives of others. Ultimately, kindness is about being human. It reminds us of our capacity to love and bring a bit of happiness around us without expecting anything in return. Perhaps it is the key to happiness, allowing us to live in harmony with ourselves and others. When we give value back to kindness, we transform our lives and the lives of others, infusing warmth and humanity into a world that sometimes desperately needs it. So, let’s be kind, not because it’s easy but because it’s beautiful, powerful, and deeply human.