The fruit of the Spirit I have chosen to focus on for July is kindness. I believe kindness is a lost art we have lost with all the social media, entitlement, and political nightmares that are happening all over the world. I noticed it big time between the Republicans and the Democrats during the elections. The cruelty was potent. Both sides were guilty of the poisoned arrows that were flying in the air. It made me sick in my heart, body, and soul. Kindness was lost. Respect was lost. Even with the election over the poison of cruelty and disrespect is still in the air. The fumes are thick and are choking out seeing each other as equals. I have no idea how to change that other than for me to dive deep into how I treat my family, friends, and my community and those who are in authority. Kindness is not earned. It is freely given no matter what the persons behavior, political views, or aspirations in life are. Kindness is hard because people being people can be annoying. Still Kindness is one of the fruits of the spirits that Paul speaks about us Christians needing in our character.
The definition of kindness is being considerate, generous, and friendly. I am working on being kind and still having my boundaries and not compromise my integrity and core values. That is a hard balance. It is not being considerate or friendly to give in to everyone or be taken advantage of. However, being kind while expressing your opinion, values, or boundaries is a must. I am not exactly sure how or what that looks like. That is why this month I am going to focus on what being kind and expressing my thoughts, opinions, and boundaries looks like.
Happy July. Happy Independence Day for those who are American citizens. One of the things I am grateful for is being an American with the rights and freedoms that I have. It is not perfect, but it is better than most. Stay well everyone and remember to be kind and to keep breathing.
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