Kindness is the antidote to everything. Just as water soothes fire, kindness calms how we burn each other from time to time. And under all the ways we burn and hurt, there's the soft and lasting presence we were born with, waiting to blossom in the midst of any trouble.
In his book "Things That Join the Sea and the Sky: Field Notes on Living," Mark Nepo emphasizes the crucial role of kindness in overcoming conflicts. He likens kindness to water, which can extinguish the flames of anger and hurt that people unleash upon each other. Kindness acts as a soothing remedy, reminding us of the compassion we can express even in difficult situations.
Nepo suggests that beneath the pain and struggles we experience, there is an inherent gentleness within us. This inherent tenderness is always present, waiting to emerge amidst the chaos. He encourages nurturing this essence, as it fosters healing and allows us to connect meaningfully, ultimately promoting growth amid adversity.
