Try a Little Kindness

We live in very troubed times.

The Dalai Lama

We are living when people feel very troubled. We have only recently emerged from the coronavirus pandemic. Now, there is a war between Russia and Ukraine and terror attacks in Israel, which have led to a brutal war in the Gaza Strip. Bitter political bickering and instability in the United States Congress and animosity between Democrats and Right-wing Republicans have created an atmosphere of hostility and violence among Americans. 

It is no longer possible for Americans to debate politics with friends, neighbors, and family members without hatred and rage. Some of that hatred and fury is shown by a rash of mass shootings that claim the lives of innocent people of all ages.

Against the backdrop of this drama are rising prices for food, clothes, cars, mortgages, rents, and more. These things are taking a toll on mental health. At the least, people feel stress. At worst, they feel depressed, worried, and anxious.

It is possible to feel empowered by what people can do to help themselves and others. 

A wonderful song from the 1970s delivers an essential message for everyone. The song is "Try a Little Kindness," with Glenn Campbell singing the lyrics, and it is one of Campbell's favorite songs.

The Complete Lyrics:

Try A Little Kindness

Glen Campbell

… If you see your brother standing by the road

With a heavy load from the seeds he sowed

And if you see your sister falling by the way

Just stop and say, "You're going the wrong way"

… You've got to try a little kindness

Yes, show a little kindness

Just shine your light for everyone to see

And if you try a little kindness

Then you'll overlook the blindness

Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets

… Don't walk around the down and out

Lend a helping hand instead of doubt

And the kindness that you show every day

Will help someone along their way

… You got to try a little kindness

Yes, show a little kindness

Just shine your light for everyone to see

And if you try a little kindness

Then you'll overlook the blindness

Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets

… You got to try a little kindness

Yes, show a little kindness

Just shine your light for everyone to see

And if you try a little kindness

Then you'll overlook the blindness

Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets

Try a Little Kindness serves as a timeless reminder of the positive impact individuals can have on society through acts of kindness. Its message encourages listeners to embrace empathy and compassion, fostering a sense of unity and kindness that can ultimately lead to a more harmonious world.

The worry is that people are "trying a little kindness," as little as possible.

We may need to embrace Buddhist teachings.

The teachings of the Dalai Lama are rooted in the principles of Buddhism, compassion, and mindfulness. His teachings emphasize cultivating inner peace, promoting ethical behavior, and fostering harmony among individuals and societies. Here are some critical aspects of the Dalai Lama's teachings:

1. Compassion: The Dalai Lama emphasizes the practice of compassion as a fundamental aspect of human nature. He encourages individuals to cultivate a sense of empathy and kindness towards all beings, promoting a sense of interconnectedness and reducing suffering in the world.

2. Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a central practice in the Dalai Lama's teachings. It involves being fully present in the moment and observing one's thoughts and emotions without judgment. Through mindfulness, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, leading to greater clarity and inner peace.

3. Non-violence: The Dalai Lama advocates for non-violence to resolve conflicts and promote peace. He believes that violence only perpetuates more violence and that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation.

4. Interfaith Dialogue: The Dalai Lama promotes interfaith dialogue and understanding among religious traditions. He encourages individuals to respect and learn from diverse spiritual paths, recognizing all religions' shared values and goals.

5. Environmental Stewardship: The Dalai Lama emphasizes caring for the environment and living in harmony with nature. He recognizes the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world, advocating for sustainable practices and preserving the Earth's resources.

6. Education: The Dalai Lama believes in the transformative power of education. He emphasizes the need for a holistic education that nurtures intellectual development and emotional and ethical growth. He promotes education to cultivate compassionate and responsible individuals who can contribute positively to society.

7. Inner Peace: The Dalai Lama teaches that true happiness and fulfillment come from cultivating inner peace and contentment. He encourages individuals to look inward, develop self-awareness, and produce positive mental states such as love, compassion, and forgiveness.

8. Universal Ethics: The Dalai Lama promotes the idea of universal ethics, which transcends religious, cultural, and national boundaries. He believes that ethical values such as kindness, honesty, and fairness are essential for the well-being of individuals, communities, and the world.

Overall, the teachings of the Dalai Lama emphasize the importance of cultivating compassion, mindfulness, and ethical behavior to foster personal and global well-being. His teachings inspire individuals to live with kindness, wisdom, and responsibility towards others and the planet.