I think that gifts and struggles overlap. Like, we’re not placed in the same area as another person who has the same gifting as you. I feel the same about personal struggles (but we’ll save that for another time).

A person with the gift of kindness is sparsely populated in an area that doesn’t have another person of the same gifting. The problem is that I see the enormous need for kindness; particularly in an environment where that trait is not often vocally dominant. So I become overwhelmed with the thoughts, voices and unkindness of others. I find that no one wants to relent. Everyone wants to say their point the loudest and most often, advancing their agenda in the process. I’ve often asked myself,”But why doesn’t so-and-so see it this way?” The answer is simple: They think that their way is the only way. When did we become a people who didn’t listen to each other? Social media has shown me that everyone has a mic, but but not many want to listen. We are losing the art of listening and respectfully disagreeing. I didn’t know what to say about that. 

As with many things, gifts are dichotomous. Take me for instance: I’m kind. I speak to and smile at people I don’t know. I try to treat everyone with respect and keep my mind open about most things in general. But I’ve also had my kindness be misunderstood as a weakness. I’ve been told on several occasions that I’m “too nice.” My feelings have been disregarded because I smile often and maintain a positive outlook on life. But even that [my smile] comes at a high cost.

I know that kind people are taken for granted. No one really knows what hides behind a smile. Personally, I have had to do nothing short of grit my teeth to keep my kindness in tact. Do I get angry? Yes. When I’m angry, I try to tell myself to breathe and let the feelings go (without going through the feelings no less, but that’s another post entirely). As I’m finding out, my way hasn’t been the healthiest way (although I’ve been practicing for many years).

What are your thoughts on this?

How much does your smile cost?

Until Next time,

Love & Peace.