MKE Week 18 Blog
Kindness Is My Mantra

Out of all the virtues in the Franklin Makeover, kindness is my number one—my favorite, my go-to. If virtues had a leaderboard, kindness would be sitting comfortably in first place… with a very polite smile.

This week, I had the opportunity to practice being the unopinionated observer while traveling on a winter business trip with my wife. We flew out of Chicago O’Hare, and since my wife recently had knee surgery, she required wheelchair assistance.

As I simply observed—without judging, rushing, or expecting—the kindness began immediately. The attendant was one of the nicest, most polite young men you could ever want to meet.

He guided us smoothly through security and all the way to the gate, making what could have been a stressful situation feel calm and effortless.

Next came the ticket agent at the gate. While waiting to board, I approached the desk to see if it was possible to move our seats closer to the front. We were originally assigned Row 36, seats D & E—also known as the back of the back.

The agent kindly moved us up to Row 9, seats D & E, at no additional charge. As the observer, I noted once again: kindness often shows up when you least expect it…and sometimes with extra legroom.

We arrived in Miami with no issues and were blessed to learn that our hotel offered a free airport shuttle. Later that afternoon, while searching for something to eat, we noticed a sign in the hotel advertising a restaurant next door with a 2-for-1 happy hour.

When we asked the waitress about it, she explained there was a misprint on the advertisement. However, she graciously made an exception for us anyway. Another simple but powerful act of kindness—quiet, unannounced, and freely given.

We were gone for ten days, including a seven-day cruise, and as I continued to observe without attachment or expectation, I noticed our entire trip was filled with acts of kindness and grace—God’s unmerited favor—every step of the way.

That grace even followed us home, as we once again found ourselves seated in Row 9, seats D & E, instead of Row 36. Apparently, kindness doesn’t just travel well—it books aisle seats.

This week reminded me that kindness is happening everywhere, every day, whether we notice it or not. And I firmly believe this: if you can be anything, be kind.

Thanks.

Peace be the Journey,
Larry Russell