A power that changes the world
Apr 21st, 2008 by spaceagesage
A few words can say a lot:
If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion. ~Dalai Lama
But sometimes it is so hard to follow such words, so let me tell you a little known truth: Kindness packs a punch. In his book The Power of Intention, Dr. Wayne Dyer writes:
Research has shown that a simple act of kindness directed toward another improves the functioning of the immune system and stimulates the production of Serotonin in both the recipient of the kindness and the person extending the kindness. Even more amazing is that persons observing the act of kindness have similar beneficial results … Kindness extended, received, or observed beneficially impacts the physical health and feelings of everyone involved!
This goes way beyond the “what you reap, you sow” idea and even further than the Golden Rule.
Max Lucado, in his book Facing Your Giants, includes a story of the barbaric “Death House of Chungkai” in the jungles of Burma, where allied soldiers daily faced torture, starvation, and death in a Japanese prison camp during World War II. The conditions were such that even the prisoners turned on each other in living out a human law of the jungle. One of the prisoners was Earnest Gordon lying in bed waiting to die and be done with the hellish place. Lucado writes of Gordon and the camp:
But then something wonderful happens. Two new prisoners, in whom hope stirs, are transferred to the camp. Though also sick and frail, they heed a higher code. They share their meager meals and volunteer for extra work. They cleanse Gordon’s ulcerated sores and massage his atrophied legs. They give him his first bath in six weeks. His strength slowly returns, and with it, his dignity … Their goodness proves contagious, and Gordon contracts a case. He begins to treat the sick and share his rations … Other soldiers do likewise. Over time, the tone of the camp softens and brightens. Sacrifice replaces selfishness.
Acts of kindness — small or big, random or planned — go a long, long way.
Why not pass some of it on today?
Hey thats a great story, even in the hardest times there are people that can show the power of caring and helping others to the betterment of the individual and the group.
Steve — Yes, kindness does not change its nature in good times or bad.
Dear SpSage,
You have wonderful “substance factor” through your experiences and, in my opinion, your martial arts training which give you a unique perspective.
Thoughts and their “audio” cousins words are the building blocks of the reality we desire. Unfortunately we often ignore our own power.
I represent author Susan Hanshaw and her upcoming book “Inner Architect: How To Build The Life You Were Designed To Live.” A bit of detail:
http://innerarchitect.wordpress.com/2008/04/23/affirm-your-new-reality-affirmations-5-tools-to-dismantle-your-doubt/
http://innerarchitect.wordpress.com/2008/04/30/manage-the-power-of-your-mind-learn-how-to-manage-your-words/
Would you consider reviewing Susan’s book upon it’s debut in June? We would be honored if you would consider giving us your feedback.
Thank you for your consideration!
dean and susan