There is an
increasing amount of research revealing that human beings are inherently kind
and compassionate. And there are many examples and anecdotes of cultures and communities
that live in alignment with these values and lead with kindness. Today, we
explore this theme to uncover two inspiring stories of creating a culture of
kindness, from around the world.
1. Langar - A mega-kitchen,
which serves thousands of people day in and day out, all at no cost. This
service is truly out of the love for mankind and known as ‘langar’ or ‘Guru ka
langar’, which basically means a common kitchen at a Gurudwara, where food is
served to all the visitors at free of cost. All meals are cooked in a community
kitchen by volunteers, and is also served by them. Meals are offered out of
generosity to anyone, regardless of race, religion, culture or caste. No one is
turned away and their main aim is to spread kindness and ensure equality
amongst all mankind. Each and every Gurudwara across the world function in the
same manner.
2. The concept of ‘Ubuntu’
– an ideology formed by a South African - basically means ‘I
am because we are.’ A renowned South African activist, Mr. Desmond Tutu, has
explained the philosophy in a crisp manner. He says, “Africans have a thing
called ubuntu. We believe that a person is a person through other persons. That
my humanity is caught up, bound up, inextricably, with yours. When I dehumanize
you, I dehumanize myself. The solitary human being is a contradiction in terms.
Therefore you seek to work for the common good because your humanity comes into
its own in community, in belonging.” For many South Africans, this is a way of
life!
We at MySocially believe that kindness and
compassion are driving factors in making a difference in the lives of people.
Our core intention is to create a
culture of kindness with a strong belief that it has the potential to see
off a ripple effect and create large
impact on society.
