"Three things in human life are important:
the first is to be kind;
the second is to be kind;
and the third is to be kind."
~ Henry James
Whenever I read The Twelve Gifts of Birth to groups of young children, upon completing the story, I
ask, “What gift seems most important to you? Do you have a favorite one?”
While every gift gets at least one vote,
compassion is often the gift that most children choose. But they call it by another name.
Many of the young children are not yet familiar with the word “compassion.” However, their hearts understand its meaning and importance. That must be why, again and again, time after time, I’ve heard children say, “The kindness one.”
The kindness one. May that be the gift we use most throughout this day.
With love,
Charlene*
THE FOURTH GIFT IS COMPASSION
May you be gentle with yourself and others.
May you forgive those who hurt you
and yourself when you make mistakes.
from The Twelve Gifts of Birth
* from the e-book,
Opening The Twelve Gifts:
A Touchstone Sampler
