Although it may seem there is nothing we can do,

we can be kind. 

Equanimity. Altruism. Compassion. Courage.

It is admirable to strive for these virtues and others. These qualities are not easy to achieve. They’re overwhelming, surely for the starting practitioner, and even for those who are not. Fortunately, there’s a more basic virtue we can achieve—kindness.

“Is there anything I can help with?” upon seeing our elderly neighbor.

“Why don’t you go first” to the person who approached the check-out line the same moment we did.

The wave to the driver who is trying to edge out into traffic to pull ahead of you.

The smile to the child who looks up at you apprehensively.

For virtues with a capital “V,” we need wisdom. For kindness, while wisdom surely helps, we just need to be aware of what is taking place around us. And to realize that putting someone else’s anxieties, fears, or needs before our own is not a sacrifice. It’s an opportunity. A chance to make two, not just one, person happier.