7 Positive Effects of Being Kind

Kindness to your least favorite person.

There are two verses in the Torah that I want to explore; Shemot 23:4 says "When you encounter your enemy's ox or ass wandering, you must take it back to him" and 23:5, "When you see the ass of your enemy lying under its burden; and would you refrain from raising it, you must nevertheless raise it with him."

These two verses teach us very important lessons about behavior. Let's keep in mind that these scenarios are about individuals who don't like each other. Perhaps you may have heard of a similar situation. I think there are some people who might be happy that their enemy has lost their property or is suffering some kind of burden.

The Torah tells us to behave otherwise. We are to show kindness, even to someone we may not like, by helping them.

The Torah does not give a reason why we should be kind and even help in situations even if we may not want to. However, research shows that helping others and being kind can provide benefits to you, (the giver), to the receiver, and to the community.

Here are seven great positive results of being kind and helpful:

1. Makes you a better person

2. Helps you understand people better

3. Makes a difference in someone else's life

4. An example for others to follow

5. It's inspiring

6. Gives life meaning

7. Good for society and contributes to the overall health of the community making the world a better place.

So, you may, or may not be called upon to return your enemy's lost item that you may have found; or you may not have the opportunity to help his loaded struggling animal, but there are always opportunities to be kind and maybe even help someone.

One random act of kindness a day to realize these seven benefits! Can you do it?