To be kind. To be powerful. To be helpful. Several months ago I heard a sermon (thanks Kris!) and noted these three phrases. They have been on my mind ever since. At first I wrestled with the idea of how hard it is to be all three simultaneously. But then, as I reflected I began to wonder if you can be any of them if you are not in fact, all three of them.
To be kind. To be powerful. To be helpful. Several months ago I heard a sermon (thanks Kris!) and noted these three phrases. They have been on my mind ever since. At first I wrestled with the idea of how hard it is to be all three simultaneously.
But then, as I reflected I began to wonder if you can be any of them if you are not in fact, all three of them. If I am kind, but powerless and not helpful, then am I really kind, or simply polite? I supposed we can easily see that people can be powerful in a bad and bully sort of way and certainly be neither kind nor helpful. But if you are wanting to be a good person, then doesn't your power require these other two elements for balance?
And conversely, if I really want to be known as a kind and helpful person, I think it requires the use of power - the use of strength and fortitude is what brings about real kindness and service. I find it interesting that the phrases began with kindness first - perhaps that is the intention. And then powerfulness - is that the action step? And finally helpfulness - the end result. I'm beginning to ask myself in challenging situations: Am I being kind? Am I being powerful? Is what I am doing helpful? I'll be curious to hear what you think about these three little phrases.
Today we celebrate International Women's Day - March 8. It began in the early 1900s, but has grown into a global celebration today. This year's theme is ... "I will." What does that mean to you? Let's talk about what we willed the next time we are
together.
Take care!
