A careful selection of kindness quotes and kindness proverbs to motivate anyone on the beauty and essence of being kind.
Kindness is a language which the blind can see and the deaf can hear. ~African proverb
You can attract more bees with a spoonful of sugar than a cupful of vinegar. ~Saint Francis de Sales
Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you – not because they are nice, but because you are. ~Anonymous
Forget injuries, never forget kindnesses. ~Chinese proverb
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. ~Plato
The greatest wisdom of all is kindness. ~Hebrew proverb
Kindness breaks no bones. ~German proverb
If something uncharitable is said in your presence, either speak in favor of the absent, or withdraw, or, if possible, stop the conversation. ~St. John Vianney
The majority of us lead quiet, unheralded lives as we pass through this world. There will most likely be no ticker-tape parades for us, no monuments created in our honor. But that does not lessen our possible impact, for there are scores of people waiting for someone just like us to come along; people who will appreciate our compassion, our unique talents. Someone who will live a happier life merely because we took the time to share what we had to give. Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have a potential to turn a life around. it’s overwhelming to consider the continuous opportunities there are to make our love felt. ~Leo Buscaglia
By being grateful, a man makes himself deserving of yet another kindness ~Nigerian proverb
It is raining still… Maybe it is not one of those showers that is here one minute and gone the next, as I had so boldly assumed. Maybe none of them are. After all, life in itself is a chain of rainy days. But there are times when not all of us have umbrellas to walk under. Those are the times when we need people who are willing to lend their umbrellas to a wet stranger on a rainy day. I think I’ll go for a walk with my umbrella. ~Sun-Young Park
Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless. ~Bl. Mother Teresa
A forced kindness deserves no thanks. ~Italian proverb
Human kindness has never weakened the stamina or softened the fiber of a free people. A nation does not have to be cruel to be tough. ~Franklin D. Roosevelt
I prefer you to make mistakes in kindness than work miracles in unkindness. ~Bl. Mother Teresa
Listen with kindness for a clear explanation. ~Egyptian proverb
Love all. Trust a few. Do wrong to none. ~William Shakespeare
Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness, and understanding you can muster, and do it with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again. ~Og Mandino
Count no day lost in which you waited your turn, took only your share and sought advantage over no one. ~Robert Brault
A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles. ~William Hazlitt
Kind words elicit trust. Kind thoughts create depth. Kind deeds bring love. ~Lao Tzu
Kindly words do not enter so deeply into men as a reputation for kindness. ~Mencius
Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive. ~Dalai Lama
As perfume to the flower, so is kindness to speech. ~Katherine Francke
The best portion of a good man’s life is his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love. ~William Wordsworth
Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate. ~Albert Schweitzer
Courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest in the gratefully and appreciating heart. ~Henry Clay
One ill behaviour may cause others to forget the kindness we’ve done. ~Indonesian proverb
A kindness bestowed on the good is never thrown away. ~Latin proverb
Kindness can become its own motive. We are made kind by being kind. ~Eric Hoffer
Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts. ~Charles Dickens
If we make our goal to live a life of compassion and unconditional love, then the world will indeed become a garden where all kinds of flowers can bloom and grow. ~Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
He suffocates me with kindness. ~Latin proverb
Part of kindness is loving people more than they deserve. ~Joseph Joubert
Kindness is more than deeds. It is an attitude, an expression, a look, a touch. It is anything that lifts another person. ~C. Neil Strait
Remember not only to say the right thing in the right place, but far more difficult still, to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment. ~Benjamin Franklin
How quickly with all is a kindness forgotten. ~Latin proverb
Kindness is never wasted. If it has no effect on the recipient, at least it benefits the bestower. ~S. H. Simmons
If you stop to be kind, you must swerve often from your path. ~Mary Webb
Kindness can pluck the whiskers of a lion. ~Moroccan proverb
Kind words are a creative force, a power that concurs in the building up of all that is good, and energy that showers blessings upon the world. ~Lawrence G. Lovasik
Spread love everywhere you go: First of all in your own house… let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting. ~Bl. Mother Teresa
Life is short. Be swift to love! Make haste to be kind! ~Henri F. Amiel
Life is mostly froth and bubbles,
Two things stand like stone,
Kindness in another’s trouble,
Courage in your own. ~Adam Lindsay Gordon
Kindness is more important than wisdom, and the recognition of this is the beginning of wisdom. ~Theodore Isaac Rubin, M.D.
Kindness refreshes and restores the tired and broken. ~Gerard Thomas Straub
Kindnesse cannot be bought for geir. ~Scotch proverb
Lead the life that will make you kindly and friendly to everyone about you, and you will be surprised what a happy life you will live. ~Charles M. Schwab
Let me, tonight look back across the span
Twixt dawn and dark, and to my conscience say-
Because of some good act to beast or human-
The world is better that I lived today. ~Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Little deeds of kindness,
little words of love,
make our earth an Eden,
like the heaven above. ~Julia Carney
No kind action ever stops with itself. One kind action leads to another. Good example is followed. A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. The greatest work that kindness does to others is that it makes them kind themselves. ~Lawrence G. Lovasik
One kind word can warm three snowy peaks. ~Japanese proverb
Thank you to all the people in the world who are always 10% kinder than they need to be. That’s what really makes the world go round. ~Helen Exley
There are more people who know how to be virtuous than actually exemplify it. Kindness and compassion are not a suit of clothes to be worn only at convenient times. ~Michael Rawls
Kindness, I’ve discovered, is everything in life. ~Isaac Bashevis Singer
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
Gold is a debt we can repay, but kindness not till our dying day. ~Malawian proverb
The best memory is that which forgets nothing, but injuries. Write kindness in marble and write injuries in the dust. ~Persian proverb
Never look down on anybody unless you’re helping him up. ~Jesse Jackson
It is easy to forget a kindness, but one remembers unkindness. ~Indian proverb
We ought to do good to others as simply as a horse runs, or a bee makes honey, or a vine bears grapes season after season without thinking of the grapes it has borne. ~Marcus Aurelius
There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up. ~John Andrew Holmes
When you are kind to someone in trouble, you hope they’ll remember and be kind to someone else. And, it’ll become like a wildfire. ~Whoopi Goldberg
Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness. ~Seneca
Write injuries in dust, But kindnesses in marble. ~French proverb
It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice. ~Anonymous
He that asketh a courtesy promiseth a kindness. ~English proverb
You have not lived a perfect day, even though you have earned your money, unless you have done something for someone who will never be able to repay you. ~Ruth Smeltzer
When you carry out acts of kindness, you get a wonderful feeling inside. It is as though something inside your body responds and says, “Yes, this is how I ought to feel.” ~Harold Kushner
Kindness will never be wasted in any way. ~Japanese proverb
Don’t wait for people to be friendly, show them how. ~Anonymous
Kindness begets kindness. ~Greek proverb
How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these. ~George Washington Carver
Better do a kindness near home than go far to burn incense. ~Chinese proverb
Kindness, like a boomerang, always returns. ~Anonymous
One kindness is the price of another. ~Japanese proverb
By swallowing evil words unsaid, no one has ever harmed his stomach. ~Winston Churchill
Kindness brings happiness. ~English proverb
The kindest word in all the world is the unkind word, unsaid. ~Anonymous
Do not forget little kindnesses and do not remember small faults. ~Chinese proverb
Make it a practice to judge persons and things in the most favorable light at all times and under all circumstances. ~St. Vincent de Paul
He who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love. ~Spanish proverb
You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
There’s no use doing a kindness if you do it a day too late. ~Charles Kingsley
Kindness is more binding than a loan. ~American proverb
A person who is nice to you, but rude to the waiter, is not a nice person. ~Dave Barry
Stupidity closes the doors of kindness. ~Mexican proverb
If thou are a master, be sometimes blind; if a servant, sometimes deaf. ~Thomas Fuller
Men are more prone to revenge injuries than to requite kindnesses. ~Irish proverb
The only people with whom you should try to get even are those who have helped you. ~John E. Southard
Kindnesses, like grain, increase by sowing. ~German proverb
Getting money is not all a man’s business: to cultivate kindness is a valuable part of the business of life. ~Samuel Johnson
A word of kindness is better than a bottle of vodka. ~Russian proverb
Love someone who doesn’t deserve it. ~Anonymous
When I was young, I admired clever people. Now that I am old, I admire kind people. ~Abraham Joshua Heschel
With a sweet tongue of kindness, you can drag an elephant by a hair. ~Persian proverb
The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit. ~Nelson Henderson
Kindness does not go rotten. ~Swahili proverb
Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves. ~James Matthew Barrie
Kindness is the beginning and the end of the law. ~Hebrew proverb
Don’t cast a shadow on anyone unless you’re providing shade. ~Terri Guillemets
Honesty and kindness enhance every beauty. ~Sicilian proverb
In a world that often seems divided and fast-paced, the simple act of kindness can serve as a beacon of hope and unity. These carefully selected kindness quotes and proverbs shed light on the beauty and essence of being kind, reminding us of the transformative power of our actions. From ancient proverbs to the wisdom of philosophers and modern thinkers, these quotes offer insight into the profound impact of kindness on ourselves and those around us.
Kindness: A Universal Language – African Proverb
“African proverb wisely states, “Kindness is a language which the blind can see and the deaf can hear.” This powerful quote transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, emphasizing that kindness is a universal form of communication. It speaks to the idea that acts of kindness resonate deeply within the human heart, regardless of differences in perception or hearing. Kindness is a language of the soul that transcends the limitations of the physical world.
The Sweet Attraction of Kindness – Saint Francis de Sales
Saint Francis de Sales offers a delightful analogy with the quote, “You can attract more bees with a spoonful of sugar than a cupful of vinegar.” This charming image reminds us of the magnetic quality of kindness. Just as bees are drawn to sweetness, people are naturally inclined towards those who exude kindness and positivity. De Sales’ quote encourages us to be the honey that attracts goodness into our lives and the lives of others.
Politeness: A Virtue in Action – Anonymous
“Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you – not because they are nice, but because you are.” This anonymous quote serves as a gentle reminder that politeness and kindness are not contingent upon the behavior of others. Instead, they are reflections of our character and values. Choosing to respond to rudeness with kindness is a testament to our own inner strength and integrity.
The Art of Remembering Kindness – Chinese Proverb
“Forget injuries, never forget kindnesses.” This Chinese proverb offers a profound lesson in perspective. It encourages us to release grudges and grievances while holding onto the memories of kindness we have received. By doing so, we cultivate a heart that is open, forgiving, and appreciative of the goodness in the world.
The Battle Behind Every Smile – Plato
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” Plato’s quote reminds us that appearances can be deceiving. Behind every smile, there may be hidden struggles and challenges. This empathetic perspective encourages us to approach others with compassion and understanding, recognizing the shared human experience of facing difficulties.
Wisdom in Kindness – Hebrew Proverb
“The greatest wisdom of all is kindness.” This Hebrew proverb succinctly captures the essence of true wisdom. While knowledge and intelligence have their place, kindness transcends intellectual boundaries. It is an expression of profound wisdom that enriches our lives and the lives of those we touch.
The Gentle Strength of Kindness – German Proverb
“Kindness breaks no bones.” This German proverb playfully reminds us that acts of kindness do not weaken us; instead, they strengthen our bonds with others. Kindness is not a sign of vulnerability but a demonstration of inner strength and character.
Speaking Up for Kindness – St. John Vianney
In the face of uncharitable words, St. John Vianney advises, “If something uncharitable is said in your presence, either speak in favor of the absent, or withdraw, or, if possible, stop the conversation.” This quote underscores the importance of taking a stand against negativity and cruelty. It encourages us to be advocates for kindness and compassion, even in challenging social situations.
The Impact of Small Acts – Leo Buscaglia
Leo Buscaglia’s heartfelt reflection on kindness reminds us that our actions, no matter how seemingly small, can have a profound impact on others. He states, “The majority of us lead quiet, unheralded lives as we pass through this world. There will most likely be no ticker-tape parades for us, no monuments created in our honor. But that does not lessen our possible impact, for there are scores of people waiting for someone just like us to come along; people who will appreciate our compassion, our unique talents. Someone who will live a happier life merely because we took the time to share what we had to give.”
Gratitude as a Path to More Kindness – Nigerian Proverb
The Nigerian proverb wisely states, “By being grateful, a man makes himself deserving of yet another kindness.” This quote highlights the reciprocal nature of kindness and gratitude. When we express gratitude for the kindness we receive, we create a cycle of generosity that continues to uplift and connect people.
Sharing Umbrellas on Rainy Days – Sun-Young Park
Sun-Young Park’s reflection on rainy days and umbrellas serves as a poignant metaphor for acts of kindness. She muses, “It is raining still… Maybe it is not one of those showers that is here one minute and gone the next, as I had so boldly assumed. Maybe none of them are. After all, life in itself is a chain of rainy days. But there are times when not all of us have umbrellas to walk under. Those are the times when we need people who are willing to lend their umbrellas to a wet stranger on a rainy day.” Park’s words encourage us to be the umbrella in someone else’s stormy moments.
The Echoes of Kind Words – Bl. Mother Teresa
Bl. Mother Teresa’s insight into kind words resonates deeply: “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” This quote reminds us that the impact of our words extends far beyond the moment of utterance. Kindness leaves a lasting impression, echoing through time and influencing the hearts and minds of others.
The Sincerity of Kindness – Italian Proverb
“A forced kindness deserves no thanks.” This Italian proverb emphasizes the importance of sincerity in our acts of kindness. True kindness arises from a genuine desire to make a positive difference in someone’s life. When kindness is authentic, it brings joy both to the giver and the receiver.
The Strength of Humanity – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Franklin D. Roosevelt speaks to the intersection of kindness and strength, stating, “Human kindness has never weakened the stamina or softened the fiber of a free people. A nation does not have to be cruel to be tough.” This quote challenges the misconception that kindness equates to weakness. In reality, it is a hallmark of resilience and the mark of a compassionate society.
Prioritizing Kindness Over Miracles – Bl. Mother Teresa
Bl. Mother Teresa wisely suggests, “I prefer you to make mistakes in kindness than work miracles in unkindness.” This quote underscores the value of consistent, everyday acts of kindness over occasional grand gestures. Small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity that far surpasses isolated extraordinary feats.
Listening with Kindness – Egyptian Proverb
“Listen with kindness for a clear explanation.” This Egyptian proverb encourages us to approach communication with empathy and patience. By listening with kindness, we foster understanding and create space for constructive dialogue.
Shakespearean Wisdom – William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare imparts timeless wisdom in his quote, “Love all. Trust a few. Do wrong to none.” These words remind us that kindness is rooted in love and extends to all, while also encouraging discernment and ethical conduct.
A Radical Approach to Kindness – Og Mandino
Og Mandino offers a radical challenge in his quote, “Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness, and understanding you can muster, and do it with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again.” This quote calls us to embrace kindness as a way of life, one that can transform not only the lives of others but also our own.
The Value of Fairness and Equity – Robert Brault
Robert Brault highlights the importance of fairness and equity in his quote, “Count no day lost in which you waited your turn, took only your share and sought advantage over no one.” This quote underscores that kindness includes treating others with fairness and respecting their rights.
The Miraculous Effects of Kindness – William Hazlitt
“A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles.” William Hazlitt’s quote reminds us that kindness need not always be expressed through grand gestures. Small, genuine acts of kindness can have a profound impact on others, transforming their day and, sometimes, their lives.
The Threefold Path of Kindness – Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu beautifully articulates the three dimensions of kindness: “Kind words elicit trust. Kind thoughts create depth. Kind deeds bring love.” This quote highlights the interconnectedness of our words, thoughts, and actions in fostering genuine kindness and love.
Reputation for Kindness – Mencius
“Mencius emphasizes the significance of reputation for kindness, stating, “Kindly words do not enter so deeply into men as a reputation for kindness.” This quote underscores the enduring impact of consistently embodying kindness in our interactions with others.
Kindness: A Necessity for Humanity – Dalai Lama
“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.” The Dalai Lama’s quote speaks to the essential role of kindness and compassion in the fabric of human existence. It reminds us that these qualities are not mere extras but fundamental to our collective well-being.
Perfuming Speech with Kindness – Katherine Francke
“As perfume to the flower, so is kindness to speech.” Katherine Francke’s quote beautifully illustrates the transformative power of kindness in communication. Just as perfume enhances the fragrance of a flower, kindness enriches the beauty and impact of our words.
These quotes and proverbs serve as a collective reminder of the profound influence of kindness in our lives and in the world at large. They invite us to embrace kindness as a way of being, a universal language that transcends differences and fosters connection. As we reflect on these words of wisdom, let us be inspired to cultivate kindness in our hearts and share it generously with others, knowing that the ripple effect of our actions can bring about positive change and create a more compassionate and harmonious world.