Fifth Fruit: Kindness
The fruit of kindness begins to have meaning in our lives when we show compassion and generosity to those we encounter in our daily lives. Yet, until we allow ourselves to receive kindness from friend or stranger, our definition of the Spirit’s kindness is incomplete.
True kindness is reciprocal, but it is not the reciprocity that touts, “Give to receive.” There is no evidence of kindness in that transaction.
When we give to others, expecting nothing in return, we begin to understand the meaning of kindness. The full revelation of its meaning dawns on us in the moment we willingly receive kindness from friends or strangers.
As we receive kindness, we are inspired to pass it on, and in this holy reciprocity, the fruit of God’s kindness grows within us and in our world.
Sr. Sharon of Jesus, osc