There is Power in Being Nice

Over coffee, a friend recently remarked, “If you are nice, people just walk all over you!”  Frankly, I felt her pain.  I understood.  She was very hurt and disappointed in someone who took her goodness for granted.  I am sure, with a little time, my friend will re-discover her resilience and bounce back.  I know she will forgive and recover because she is super nice.

I recently went to a Passover Sedar and sat in my manual wheelchair at a small table with my (young adult) nieces and nephew.  I idly listened to a lot of enthusiastic chatter about which Netflix shows they were binge-watching.

However, what impressed me about the evening was the kindness my nephew showed throughout the meal – and afterward.  He frequently asked if there was anything he could do to help.  I could feel his heart and his sincerity.  It made me stop and take notice.

When leaving, my nephew was the first one to help and hold open the front door.  Again, I was deeply touched by his kindness.  It was a small and perhaps insignificant thing, but again it showed an inner quality that is so important.

Being nice is sometimes overlooked.  Occasionally, it comes with its vulnerabilities. Yet, being nice is an important quality that has depth and heart.  There is Power in Being Nice.  It positively impacts ourselves and those around us.