Small Acts of Kindness of Love

Year 8-Day 115: Today, I am grateful for the small acts of kindness and love that keep the darkness at bay.

I had an exchange with a student about "The Lord of the Rings" series this week. I have never read it, but she's read it twice during the quarantine. I wonder if this quote stood out to her? It is perfect for this new reality we are living. 

"Some believe that it is only GREAT POWER that can hold evil in check. But, that is not what I've found. I found it is the SMALL THINGS, every day deed by ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay. Small acts of LOVE and KINDNESS." - Gandalf, The Hobbit,  JRRR Tolkien 

It is the smallest acts of kindness and love that are pouring hope and light into our days. 

John Krasinski has been highlighting "Some Good News" around the world. It can be found on YouTube. He highlights the good stuff people are doing to help each other through these days of "staying in place" and "social distancing". 

Concerts are popping up on FaceBook live. People are waving to each other and offering friendly faces from a distance. From the same distance, where we were once in a hurry and impatient. My friend, Roxanne, shared an article that was noting the decline in heart attacks and strokes since we've been forced to slow down. That certainly gives us a reason to pause and contemplate the good in the bad, right? 

Ordinary people are dropping items off to neighbors, simply because they have enough to share. As a virus has attempted to keep us apart, in many ways, we are growing closer. We are bonding over our shared inconveniences and our sorrow for those impacted.  We are praying for and cheering on those at risk on the front lines. We are making memories with loved ones near and far. Genuine needs increase our generosity. We become more grateful for the simplest of items, like toilet paper. 

Generosity in action is a beautiful, comforting force. 

"And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ.  Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people." -Philemon 6-7

Great powers come and go. Love and kindness echo into eternity. Don't be afraid of the dark. 

Today, I am grateful for the small acts of kindness and love that keep the darkness at bay.