KINDNESS (CHESED)
Let us develop our compassion and our ability to nurture. Can we cultivate caring and generosity for others, without expecting a reward in return? Can we do someone else a favor, and help someone out, without being asked?
Great is the virtue of performing gemilut chasadim (loving-kindness), because it is one of the thirteen attributes ascribed to God. As it is written — “Hashem, Hashem…long suffering and abundant in kindness” — and as we act, we should take pains then, to emulate God.
-Commentary based on Exodus 34:6
Increasing our capacity for kindness opens new pathways of relationship and increases our potential to have more wholeness/wellness in our lives. As we see that the world is not just about our needs, we can soften our approach to other things and improve our emotional health, and even our physical health, as well
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER:
How often do we take the feelings of someone else into account? Do we realize that we are representing our values as we live in this world — and we are demonstrating our nature as our children and our community see us act? How does it feel to have someone else do something unexpectedly nice for us? How can we keep that feeling of buoyancy and gratitude flowing?
SOMETHING TO DO:
Write an encouraging note to a friend expressing the good that they add to your life. Add the words, “please” and “thank you,” as you make requests today — especially to someone who is hired to serve you. Tell someone that you love them — and maybe add one reason why you do. Cancel your obligations for an hour or two, and open the time to sit with someone who would really appreciate your visit. Today, stop being judgmental — refrain from gossiping about someone else, and take the time instead, to publicly give those same people the benefit of the doubt.