Gentleness

Of all the virtues, perhaps the least considered is that of gentleness. Nor do you find it praised much in the news or popular media for these are venues reserved primarily for the loud and the proud. Indeed gentleness, by its very nature, does little to call attention to itself. It is usually focused upon others and, therefore, may often be overlooked entirely. However, I have known some amazing men and women who exuded the virtue of gentleness, usually wearing it with grace and dignity. For there is a strength in gentleness which the world often overlooks. It isn’t the thundering strength of war machines or the redundant prattling of a noisy media. Rather it is the kind of quiet strength which patiently shapes the world. Just as solid rocks are slowly broken by the wind and rain and the roots of tiny plants, so gentleness works its way in world … one heart at a time. The rash, the mighty, the selfish; these are the ones who seem to rule the world. However, even though they may conquer and control the world they can never truly win it over. For the world to be truly changed it must be won over, heart and mind. Herein lies the strength of gentleness for it makes the world want to change itself. That is true power, but it can only be wielded by the virtuous, the patient, the loving and the kind. For gentleness, like humility, must well up from within and, likewise, instantly evaporates once self-proclaimed. So take a step back. Calm your spirit and try the higher path of gentleness. You will be amazed at what it can accomplish … and the world might just end up a better place because of it.

Gentleness
There is a strength in gentleness
Not often understood
But the power of a gentle hand
Can do the greatest good
One should never underestimate
The kind and gentle man
Who can change with love and patience
What the cruel one never can
Many a bloody victory
Was won by the iron fist
But victory over the will means naught
If the heart and mind resist
It is only the kind and gentle man
Who wins the heart as well
In the end his love and patience prevail
Thus many a tyrant fell
Brute strength and anger drive away
The real person inside
But the gentle man is a confidant
In whom others seek to confide
His willingness to listen
Also gives him the right to speak
His words are not the words of pride
And are heeded because they are meek
Politics and history
Belong to the selfish and strong
Who love the limelight and the power
And the masses follow along
But down at the root of humanity
Are the real heroes of life
Who change the world one heart at a time
Bringing comfort through trial and strife
Who heal and help and sacrifice
On the front line every day
They make the world a better place
To live and work and play
For it is the kind and gentle man
Who accepts with arms flung wide
The ones who chance to cross his path
Without the prejudice of pride
His contribution might seem small
To those who don't understand
But he is the salt of a hurting world ...
And the instrument of God's hand
By Frank Carpenter ©