Love is (Not Ugly But) Kind

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Years ago, when I was a second-grade teacher, a new transfer student, we’ll call him Joe (not his real name), was assigned to my class. A review of the academic record or personal file that accompanied Joe revealed these words, “This child is a wild animal.’”

I immediately told the principal I would not accept the child’s file; it had to be changed. The statement referring to Joe as a “wild animal” had to be removed. The principal quickly agreed.

I must admit Joe was a challenging student. Academics were extremely difficult for him. He also struggled behaviorally, socially, emotionally, cognitively and in every other way. Even learning to write his own name was tough for Joe.

My goal was to help Joe achieve as much success as possible. There were many ups and downs, good days, and not so good days, but Joe did learn.

The last day of school came and, as typical for second graders, there were many affectionate good-byes that were expressed in hugs, notes, and homemade cards. After all the children were gone, I sat quietly reading through the stack of farewell wishes that the students had left on my desk.

To my surprise, there was a card from Joe. He had written in his unmistakable handwriting, “Dear Miss Bumr, (B-u-m-r) I lik (l-i-k) you.” Translated the meaning was, “I like you.” Even though all the words were misspelled or incorrect or both, Joe’s message was clearly communicated.

I knew how hard he had to work and how much effort it had taken for Joe to put that many words on paper. I knew how much social and emotional growth had happened for Joe to be able to express these thoughts of kindness. His note was probably one of the most extravagant gifts I have ever received. Even now, decades later, I treasure his words.

I wonder, what happened that so changed this child from what had previously been described as a “wild animal?” What was the catalyst that equipped him to work so hard to express kindness?

I believe a major factor that enabled him to give kindness was that he had consistently received kindness.

The New Spirit Filled Life Bible describes ‘kindness’ as “goodness in action and gentleness in dealing with others.” (Page 1638, Galatians 5:22)

I wonder, would you describe yourself as a kind person? Are you one who expresses goodness in action and gentleness in dealing with others?

This Valentine season, when you are thinking about what gifts to give your loved ones, how about giving the gift of kindness?

In Ephesians‬ “And never let ugly or hateful words come from your mouth, but instead let your words become beautiful gifts that encourage others; do this by speaking words of grace to help them.”

And a few verses later in Ephesians 4:32, as written in the Phillips translation, we are instructed to — “Be kind to each other, be understanding. Be as ready to forgive others as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.”

As you celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, consider giving the gift of kindness. Do this by being kind to yourself, to all your loved ones and to everyone you encounter.

 

Check out our Love Pillar introduction.

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Check out these devotionals and other resources on kindness:

365 Days of Kindness for Kids By Broadstreet Publishing Group Encourage kids to learn about kindness to others with 365 Days of Kindness for Kids. It’s not always easy to be nice to people especially when they are unkind to you, but God tells us to love everyone—even our enemies! You can be kind every day if you ask God to help you. When you spend time with him, you start to understand how much he loves you and that helps you love others better. The devotions and Bible verses in this book will show you how important kindness is and give you some great ideas for spreading love, happiness, and hope. When you are kind, it shows others God’s love for them, and there are a lot of people who really need to feel that right now. Recommended for ages 6 to 10 years.

365 Days of Kindness: Daily Devotions – eBook By Broadstreet Publishing Group

Choose Kindness: 3-Minute Devotional Inspiration for Kids By Barbour Publishing * Help your children discover the power of doing daily devotions! In just three minutes a day, Simmons encourages kids to read God’s Word, talk to the Lord through a prayer, and apply what they’ve read with a question for further reflection. Includes Scripture index. Ages 8 and up. 192 pages, softcover from Shiloh Kids.

The Berenstain Bears: Kindness Counts By ZonderKidz 2011 Outreach Resource of the Year! Brother Bear loves everything to do with model airplanes, whether it’s building, fixing, or flying them. But when he shares one of his prized planes with a younger cub will his kindness be returned? Recommended for ages 4-7.

Babies Love Kindness: Lift a Flap Board Book By Cottage Door Press Babies Love Kindness: Lift a Flap Board Book This sweet lift-a-flap board book teaches little ones the meaning of kindness and empathy. Whether offering help, inviting a friend to join at playtime, sharing words of encouragement, toddlers will learn about friendship, love, empathy and spreading kindness wherever they go. The interactive elements encourage sensory exploration, and help support development of fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. Board book, Ages 0-4 years old.

Stick with Kindness Reusable Sticker Playscenes By Highlights Press Stick with Kindness Reusable Sticker Playscenes Little ones will have fun learning about kindness while using their imagination with over 170 vinyl cling reusable stickers, along with three double-sided playscenes. One side of each scene will guide kids to understand examples of kindness, while the other side encourages open-ended play and encourages kids to imagine their own ways to show kindness. Paperback, 5 pages. Recommended for ages 3 to 6 years old.

Everyday Kindness: Spiritual Refreshment for Women By Patricia Mitchell / Barbour Publishing * Scripture tells us to “be kind to one another.” But what does that mean? Featuring 200 uplifting devotions from the author of Everyday Comfort, this day-brightening resource will inspire you to make compassionate, positive, and loving choices—at home, at work, and every time you interact with a fellow traveler on life’s journey. 192 pages, softcover from Barbour.

Choose Kindness: 3-Minute Devotions for Teen Girls By Kristin Weber / Barbour Publishing

Kindness: Nine Fruits of the Spirit Series By Robert Strand / New Leaf Publishing Far from being a “doomsday preacher,” Paul left us, through his letter to the Galatians, a picture of the complete Christian. Emphasizing what he called the “fruit of the spirit,” he listed nine characteristics that reap a harvest of nourishing fruit in the life of a believer. Learn more about the fruit called Kindness, and see how it will manifest itself in your life! Written in Strand’s famous storytelling style, each book in the series includes study questions and special insights. New Leaf Press.