As a pastor and a husband, I've learned that showing kindness in everyday life, even when we're feeling anxious, is crucial. The key is to start by putting on a friendly manner and behaving as if we're nicer people than we actually are. This might feel forced at first, but it often leads to genuine feelings of friendliness. It's like Stephen Covey said, "We achieve inner peace when our schedule aligns with our values." When we prioritize kindness, our anxiety begins to fade.
One of the best ways to show kindness is to give encouragement and guidance to those around us. A simple, timely word can raise the spirits of someone weighed down by troubles or anxious thoughts. As the Bible says in Proverbs 12:25, "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad." I try to remind my family, especially my kids Joshua and Rebecca, that kindness is a choice we can make every day. Whether it's a hug, a listening ear, or a helping hand, kindness can make a huge difference in someone's life.
As a parent, I've learned that it's essential to model kindness, especially during these challenging teenage years. My wife Susan and I make it a point to ask our kids about their day, what they're grateful for, and how they showed kindness to others. We also encourage them to talk to Jesus and express their emotions, just like we do. By doing so, we're teaching them the value of kindness, humility, and patience. And as they grow, we pray that they'll become non-anxious presences in the world, spreading love, joy, and kindness to all those around them.