Kindness – The Daily, June 14, 2020

All visitors are welcome, especially the avian ones

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” 
― Aristotle

“Who in the world am I? Ah, that’s the great puzzle.” 
― Lewis Carroll 

It’s amazing the kinds of things that researchers and scientists study. From Science Daily: “A new study takes a closer look at the benefits of volunteering to the health and well-being of volunteers, both validating and refuting findings from previous research. The results verify that adults over 50 who volunteer for at least 100 hours a year (about two hours per week) have a substantially reduced risk of mortality and developing physical limitations, higher levels of subsequent physical activity, and improved sense of well-being later on.”

In other words, doing good for others does good for yourself. Who would have imagined.

Lessons from the Past – Eighty years ago today, Germany invaded Paris. Canadian troops were in western France, offering hope to Parisians that help was coming. American President Franklin Roosevelt was offering material aid, but the Americans were still hesitant to send in troops as they knew that Hitler would see that as a declaration of war. Eighty years doesn’t really seem that long ago, and the atrocities that were committed during that time are inconceivable now. Let’s hope they stay in the past, and that the injustices that still exist are exposed to the light and finally healed.

Thought of the Day – Be kind, both to yourself and others. Start with yourself first though. If you aren’t feeling love inside, it is almost impossible to genuinely give it to others. You are a wonderful being that deserves happiness and a life well-lived. Enjoy every opportunity to offer kindness that presents itself today.

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.” 
― Plato