There is something mystical in kindness.
After doing a good deed there is a feeling of being emptied.
You are refreshed, invigorated and that joy of inexplicable humility.
What is kindness? The children say that it is sharing and helping each other. It is the typical story of a beggar who asks for food or water and the other person gladly shares something with him. The beggar then transforms into a fairy godmother and gives a reward for the good deed bestowed.
Let’s review these fairy tales. How was goodness obtained?
The elves and the shoemaker
A shoemaker and his wife in their old age worked hard to make shoes for everyone. The goblins saw sleeplessness in their dedication and in old age the dignity of work. While the shoemaker and his wife slept, cute elves made shoes for them. When the wife heard about the elves, she sewed colorful clothes for the elves to say thank you.
The selfish giant
Once upon a time there was a giant who owned a beautiful garden. He was mean to children and never allowed them to play in his garden. One day the garden dried up and the plants withered. Only ugly goblins were jumping around. The giant did not know what to do until he heard a humming voice that made the flowers bloom again. Amazed, a boy tried to climb the big tree to see over the garden wall, but he couldn’t. The giant was moved and helped the boy. Seeing the happy children around, he removed the fence and let the children play there every day. The days passed and the giant grew old, until one day he noticed that the little one was no longer among the children. He felt very sad.
He always missed the boy. While the giant waited one afternoon, the little boy stood near the trees shining with his pierced hands. She ran to the boy, offered help, and assured him of her love. The boy said his name and the giant wept and knelt down. The next day, when the children returned to the garden, they saw the giant lying near a flowering tree with a smile. Who do you think the boy was?
Truly, when goodness is transmitted, happiness in others flows like the current of a river. It is perfectly given and received like miracles from angels. Words would not be enough, but the feeling of joy and peace overflows.
It is overwhelming to watch children display this gift. For example, when my grandson Marco brought home two balloons from school, he gave one balloon to his brother Matthew and the other balloon to his cousin Raynne. Marco is only six years old. My students at Holy Francis School shared a meal with a classmate who forgot snacks or had no snacks. These kids can be mischievous at times, but when their help is sought, they act like superheroes.
How beautiful the world would be with kindness! What peace and happiness it brings to all! Goodness is the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Please pass it on.