On life (111) – ”Kind Hearts” – 30/1/2016

   In the previous article, we spoke of love that makes life fruitful. Love makes man know how beautiful it is to give and share. Love is a principle and lifestyle which are affected by our ideas, of which some obstruct the flow of love.

   One of those obstacles is seeing others’ negative attributes only with a magnifying lens. In so doing, you create a barrier that hinders your understanding of their words and intentions, thus widening the gap between you and them. So, be fair when you judge people. Also, beware that even wonderful people have negative attributes. Likewise, the worst people have positive attributes.  As a human being, you have both negative and positive attributes.

   Throughout life, mans strives to overcome his flaws and boost his positive attributes. Gandhi says, “I only look at people’s advantages. And, because I am not void of flaws, I cannot speak of others’ mistakes.” How great are the hearts that forget about people’s flaws! They overcome all barriers of rejection and build bridges of love. Hence, do not complain of people’s bad manners. Rather, show them how good manners are like.

   The hardest thing, however, is not just seeing others’ flaws. It is ignoring their advantages or belittling them. This reflects lack of love and, even worse, fullness with negative feelings. These negative feelings sway man from his goals. Be, then, honest in evaluating people’s advantages so as to win their respect and boost your self-respect as well.

   Mother Theresa dedicated her life for loving service. Her life and words taught people a lot. She said, “Do not offer money only; money is not enough. People need kind hearts that flow with love. Spread love everywhere, as the hunger for love is greater than that for bread.” May love so light your life!

General Bishop

Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center