"Have courage and be kind", this is the famous quote from the newest Disney version of Cinderella, it was one of my favorite quotes when I heard it. Over time we forget things, favorite quotes, old names of friends and grades we got on tests. This week I was reminded of the quote when I received a bracelet from my best friend. It made me think, how courageous is it to be kind?
The truth is rarely kind and kindness can sometimes be untruthful. The "courage" is in the choice to be kind and in choosing to do so because you would hope that one day you would receive that kindness in return. That courage is found within all of us if only we are to search for it.
Often times we find ourselves speaking without thinking and those are the words that are unkind, the words that take no courage to let out or keep in. The things we say determine our relationships, whether it be to let them flourish or to end them.
In life we are faced with hardships and struggles which in turn often deter us from being courageous with our words.
When someone is you best friend for 5 years they see you at your best and choose to cheer you on, but they also see you at your worse and choose pick you back up. Friendships like any relationship are not perfect, there are fights, tears, and name calling; but there's also laughs, hugs, and fond memories. My best friend and I are no different, but at the end of the day I know that no matter what happens or how long its been if I need her she'll be standing by my side. We've fought plenty about the stupidest of things, we went through all our awkward phases together-sometimes we think were still working through those, we're still terrible at taking pictures, and we live 283 miles apart. She tells me when my grammar is horrible and I tell her when the colors of her outfit don't match. Here's to my best friend, Caroline, who is courageous and loving enough to say what she thinks she must. She makes me laugh till I cry and stands by me when I need it most. Here's to the true friend who reminds me that there is a kindness is our courage.
Life beats you down, at some point it has or will. Find someone who is courageous with their words. Not only a person who is willing to be kind with them, but someone who is willing to tell you the truth even if/ when it hurts you, because more often than not they say it out if love.
Find within yourself whether the kindness of the words is more courageous or the message that truly needs to be said.
"To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.." ~1 Peter 3:8
Sending lots of love and {Suzey} Sunshine your way.. and I hope you send on that love to your own Caroline
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