one small act of kindness
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
"The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the
greatest intention."
- Khalil Gibran
Khalil Gibran, Lebanese American writer, poet and visual artists, reminds us that small acts of kindness can spur more change than the most heroic of intentions. Today, we live in a world where social media allows us to observe many acts of kindness: from helping a struggling business thrive to seeing food provided for someone experiencing food insecurity. Yet, no matter how big or small the acts of kindness were, they began with an intention first.
To understand intentions, let's explore the origins of the word. The Pali/Sanskrit word for intention is ‘centana,' which is derived from the words: “to think”, “thinking,” or just “mind (Bramble, 2021).” Similarly, the Hebrew word for intention is “Kavanah.” Kavanah means to “intend,” “to establish,” or “to constitute.” These intentions are the underlying mental foundation that causes you to consciously choose to act (or not act) “to create, determine, or to resolve” a purpose.
By this definition, you can have the most heroic intentions but, unless you act on it, it remains a thought. As such, the most remarkable victories in history started with small acts of kindness. For instance, one such victory occurred in 1936 during the Berlin Olympics.
American athlete Jesse Owens was struggling to qualify in the long jump. His German competitor, Luz Long, offered a simple piece of technical advice that helped Owens secure the gold medal. Long’s genuine kindness in the face of intense political pressure created a lifelong friendship and remains one of the greatest moments of sportsmanship in history.
If Luz Long had kept that kind intention of offering technical advice to Jesse Owens to himself, one of the greatest historical moments would not have occurred.
Further, small acts of kindness have been known to increase joy. In a study conducted by Harvard Medical, participants were randomly assigned to perform an act of kindness for relatives, friends, strangers, or themselves, and try to observe acts of kindness being done for others. Then scientist measured the participant’s happiness to analyze and compare the results. Nonetheless, after the study concluded, it was discovered that even the act of "observing" acts of kindness boosted the participants’ own happiness.
This reminds me of a personal story. The other day, I was having a particularly wonderful day when I walked into a restaurant to have breakfast. After I sat down, it felt like 20 minutes had passed as I watched others ordering and enjoying their food. Meanwhile, no one had even asked me if I needed any water, yet.
At this point, and even though the day had started off great, my joyful mood had dampened, the GM was apologetic, and I learned a valuable lesson that day. One small act of kindness like asking if I needed any water or letting me know that someone would be right back to help me, could have completely transformed this experience.
Remember, it does not take much “action” to generate change. The best way to honor your intentions is by performing small and consistent acts of kindness. Therefore, just because you do not see the change, does not mean YOU cannot BE the CHANGE and make someone’s day BRIGHTER. It only takes one small act of kindness.
To establish boundaries that empower without fear or guilt, read "Powerfully Sensitive: Boundaries That Empower Guided Journal." Sometimes, we need a gentle reminder to reclaim our power, value, and authentic voice.
After setting boundaries, and to overcome the scroll, read "Filtered Reflections: Overcoming Social Media." This guided journal is a safe space if you have ever been caught in the scroll. It is not about deleting every app, it is about taking your power back so you can live on your terms, know your value, and use your authentic voice.
Finally, KIRAJE Journal's: "Your Peace," "Your Light", "Your Grace", "Your Joy", "Your Radiance", "Your Stillness", "Your Freedom", and "Your Horizon" remind you to slow down and give thanks. These journals were created to help you reconnect with yourself through the daily practice of gratitude and honoring the moments that matter most.
Remember, you are not alone.
You are Seen. You are Known. You are Loved.
Bramble, M. (2021, November 4). The meaning of intention. Embodied Philosophy. https://www.embodiedphilosophy.com/the-meaning-of-intention/
Melissa Brodrick, Me. (2019, April 18). The heart and science of kindness. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-heart-and-science-of-kindness-2019041816447
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