We see things a certain way and might actually be right in how we’re interpreting the situation. But regardless of how right we might be, we still miss the mark when a heart of kindness doesn’t characterize our actions toward others.
To be sure, it’s possible to be right and wrong at the same time. We can be factually right on an issue while also being wrong in how we wield this truth and caring for the heart of the other.
For instance, as our child is learning a new instrument or sport we might clearly see his shortcomings in technical skills. But while we might be correct in realizing he’s not performing a skill perfectly, it would be unkind to berate him with this truth.
Kindness doesn’t downplay what is true. But it does remind us there is more to life than mere facts.
And so, with much patience and a spirit of gentleness we guide him toward better – not overlooking his shortcomings, but not letting our need to be right crush his spirit either.
Likewise, there may be times in which we correctly predict a certain outcome and warn others of pending doom, however great or small. And if they choose not to listen it’s very tempting to rub in an I-told-you-so, or two. We might even refuse to help them because they didn’t listen to us in the first place.
While we were correct in our prediction, love still calls us to kindness in times of need. Love is not boastful and doesn’t keep a record of being wronged.
This does not deny natural consequences to poor decisions. But our duty to love is not rescinded just because someone didn’t listen to the rightness of our position.
Hold tight to what is true. And don’t forget love also requires us to be kind.
Photo by Chermiti Mohamed on Unsplash
