In The Hobbit , Gandalf says, “Some believe it is only a Greater Power that can hold evil in check. But that is not what I have found. I have found that it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.”
Well, I do believe in a Greater Power and I do believe that that force holds power to counteract evil but I believe that that Greater Power works through the acts of kindness and love shown by humble folk like you and me.
Occasionally, on a Monday, I tune into the Ellen show on television. Ellen DeGeneres has led the way in tv land as a lesbian. She has faced challenges because of her sexual orientation but she has maintained a balanced and loving presence and she closes every show with, “Be kind to one another.” Recently she spoke out to a Christian pastor who, in social media, condemned her lifestyle. Her response was firm but also humourous – as only Ellen can be, and she spoke well.
It seems too easy for righteous people to condemn when what the world really needs is kindness. So many people are hurting and in my experience hurt people hurt other people. Gandalf was correct in saying the best way to turn aside evil is through acts of love and kindness.
So … do something kind for someone today. If someone does something kind to you … then pay it forward. It could stop some evil in its tracks.
