The Need for Kindness and DAKtivism™
We have seen a lot of really great achievements over the last 100 years or so with much to celebrate:
- human life expectancy has increased from 46 years at birth in 1950 to 72 years now;
- child mortality, poverty, contagious diseases and illiteracy have all decreased
- connectivity has improved with 52% of the world—over 3.8 billion people—now connected to the Internet, about two-thirds of the world has a mobile phone, and over half have smart phones, and
- we are seeing continuing improvements on many fronts, e.g. technology use and access are increasing; and babies born today are likely to live to age 100+ years as a consequence of achievements in health, science and medicine.
Alongside the achievements above however are real challenges e.g.
- the cost-of-living crisis means many families are struggling to find resources and supports,
- stress, anxiety and depression are very prevalent and despite hard working talented NHS staff and others, often there are long waiting lists for treatment,
- loneliness is v prevalent, as are a range of physical health problems even some of which could be preventable with support and information, and
- many in NI are struggling with ongoing hurt, loss and anger following 30+ years of conflict; and people can spend much time and energy in the context of those issues.
We need a different way. Particularly given the common denominator of people - how we relate to ourselves and each other.
Kindness is generally thought of as the quality of being friendly, considerate and generous but it is in fact much more.
A kind person:
- values people and is respectful of others’ views and beliefs
- is sensitive to the feelings of others; he/she tries to help others which includes NOT inflicting hurt, harm or violence,
- has qualities of compassion which includes being sensitive to the suffering the other is experiencing
- sees beyond the external conditions or labels, and instead focuses towards our common humanity and inherent worth,
- behaves with kindness, compassion and patience because ethically this is the right way to behave rather than seeking any recognition or reward, nor even for any expectation in or of return, and
- works collaboratively with others so that the other person feels empowered and enabled rather than demeaned and disempowered.
How might things change if we were kinder to ourselves? Each other?
Practicing Daily Acts of Kindness
Kindness at Home
Kindness to our Environment
Kindness with Others
DAKtivism must begin with ourselves and our own selfcare, incl eating healthily, making time for exercise, and getting back hobbies and interests.
Kindness with Others
Kindness to our Environment
Kindness with Others
DAKtivism can change lives in schools, colleges and/or organisations. It includes "small" gestures including saying hello to others, and bigger gestures such as volunteering.
Kindness to our Environment
Kindness to our Environment
Kindness to our Environment
DAKtivism also includes care and respect for our environment. This may include reducing packaging and waste; protecting animals; and planting our own fruit or vegetables.