I will be leaving here shortly to head down to the Salvation Army Christmas Center. I am really looking forward to witnessing some of the families that are coming to pick up their gifts. Its something I have yet to experience and I am really looking forward to making the connection of "Giving" during this season.

Colossians 3:12 is really speaking to me this morning~
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Love makes you a kind person. Kindness also makes you a likable person. When you're kind, people want to be around you and when they see you being good TO them they also see you being good FOR them.

Proverbs 3:3-4
3 Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. 4 Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.

Kind people simply find favor where ever they may go. I do my best to be kind to people and continue to be humble and content with whatever I have been given. More and more these past few years, my family and I are growing in our "Giving". It is addictive to "Give" - giving is more than money .... Giving is a part of yourself and when you can "Give" a part of ourselves to someone else or to a family and really get down to that level - it is something special.

~Kindness in its self is Gentleness. Be careful how you treat others. You operate in the sensitive mode when handling tough situations or having to do or say those hard things. You always put your self in the shoes of someone else.

~Kindness in its self is also Helpful. Being kind means you are meeting the needs of those around you right now. If its housework, making a meal, helping a friend, watching a friends child, or just being there to listen. We have to evaluate the needs and then be motivated to meet those needs no matter what they may be - even if your needs are put on hold.

~Kindness in its self is also Willingness. We have to be willing to get dirty and go to the messy places. We don't make excuses or complain - we just get busy doing what is needed. We can't be in the mindset of being in the spotlight as sometimes being kind is letting the person you are being kind to - be in the spotlight.

~Kindness in its self is also Initiative. We have to think ahead and take the first steps. Often times pride gets in people's way when it comes to asking for help. Sometimes we have to stay one step ahead of them and just serve them. We can't serve someone if we are sitting on the couch waiting for them to call. We often times have to go to them and not take no for an answer. Make things right! See the need and make the move forward.

Kindness is love in action. What kindness are you showing others today? Is there a need in regards to a friend, that is not being met today? What can you do to help that need and take part in that blessing?

I started taking care of the lawn care needs of a family 2 years ago. That blessing and that action has led to a friendship so close and dear to my family and I ... it is amazing what could happen when we take Kindness into the world and get moving.

Kindness with motivation = Great things ahead

Lonnie~