Kindness is a fundamental part of human condition which bridges the divide of race, religion, politics, gender and zip codes. Kindness is a show of concern about the happiness and feelings of others in a gently and friendly way. It is also the manner in which one relates to others in solving their problems and assuaging their feelings. Kindness gives people sense of belonging that goes a long way to make positive impacts on them.
Kindness is a broad term that refers to benevolence, forgiveness and mercy in a variety of ethical, religious, social and legal contexts. The concept of God of kindness appears in various religions, including Christianity, Judaism and Islam. Performing acts of kindness, as a component of religious beliefs, is also emphasized through actions such as the giving of alms, and care for the sick and works of mercy.
Kindness is one of the basic virtues of Christian ethics. It is also related to concepts of justice and morality in behaviour among people. Kindness, like the notions of volunteerism and philanthropy, provides real social bonding and contributes to the creation of inclusive and more resilient society. A behaviour of benevolence to others less fortunate than ourselves. . Provision of goods, money and health care to those in need are all acts of kindness.
One of the global kindest personalities was Mother Theresa of Calcutta. Mother Theresa’s Missionaries of Charity had over four thousand, five hundred sisters and an associated brotherhood of three hundred members, operating six hundred and ten missions in one hundred and thirty three countries. These include hospices and homes for people with HIV/AIDS, leprosy and tuberculosis, children and family counseling programmes, orphanages, and schools. Her Missionaries of Charity were also aided by Co-Workers, who numbered over one million.
Many other kindness organizations and prominent individuals of the world help to ensure environmental sustainability and forge a global partnership of development. Few of these organizations are International Committee of Red Cross and Rotary International, among others.
These organizations have made enormous contributions to lifting up of human race. They possess great capabilities, powers and responsibilities to build, restore and reconstruct the images and brightness of future of society . They are the lifelines of mankind with enormous power of kindness.
Most of the groups have provided immediate interventions to create enabling situations towards massive push which is needed to boost access to essential services for the most vulnerable children and families. These activities have provided a vital kick-start to human development and poverty reduction, long term initiative that are rooted in human rights-based approach to development.
It is also pertinent, however, to highlight on the millions of children, women and the most vulnerable who have not been beneficiaries of past gains. These are children without adequate access to education, to life-saving vaccines and to protection. Despite enormous efforts to reach children with needed services, millions continue to die every year.
Deeper approaches must be taken to give special attention to these most vulnerable. This requires the participation of governments by creating enabling environment, advocacy, motivation, and partnership with donors, international agencies, civil societies, volunteers and the mass media.
Furthermore, sequel to internal conflicts and restiveness that have bedeviled Nigeria over the years , it becomes very pertinent to call on the Federal Government to embark on the reconciliation of the entire Nigeria.
Kindness is the harbinger of peace and social responsibilities, do not procrastinate, do something for Humanity, Be Your Brother’s Keeper because every day is an opportunity to help those in need!
Written by PETER KATCHY
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