Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.

The holy voice of the Dalai Lama, a beacon of compassion in an age of restlessness, spoke thus: “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” These words shine like a lamp in the darkness, teaching us that kindness is never bound by time, place, or circumstance. It is not a luxury for the fortunate nor a courtesy for the calm; it is the eternal duty of the soul, the simplest and greatest offering we can give to one another.

To be kind is to touch the eternal. It is to see in another not an enemy, not a stranger, but a reflection of the same breath that animates ourselves. The Dalai Lama reminds us that kindness is not chained by excuses. We cannot say, “There was no chance, no moment, no way.” For kindness dwells not in grand acts alone, but in the smallest gestures—a word of comfort, a listening ear, a helping hand, a smile offered in silence. It is always possible, because it asks not for wealth or power, only for the willingness of the heart.

History is filled with acts of kindness that altered the course of nations. Recall Mahatma Gandhi, who in the face of oppression refused to return cruelty with cruelty. His weapon was compassion; his march was peace. To many, this seemed weakness. Yet his kindness disarmed empires, ignited the conscience of the world, and freed millions from chains. His life was proof that kindness is not frailty but strength, a force that can topple thrones and awaken justice where swords have failed.

Consider also the humble tale of the Christmas Truce of 1914, when soldiers of opposing armies, entrenched in mud and blood, laid down their weapons for a single night. They exchanged gifts, sang songs, and remembered their shared humanity. In the midst of war, kindness broke through like sunlight through storm clouds. Though brief, it revealed the Dalai Lama’s truth: even in the harshest fields of battle, it is always possible to be kind.

The meaning, then, is both simple and profound: the possibility of kindness lies not in the world, but within ourselves. We often wait for perfect conditions, but they never come. The world will always be filled with conflict, with burdens, with excuses. Yet the choice remains—always. To turn away in indifference is the true impossibility, for it starves both giver and receiver. But to act with kindness is to breathe life into the spirit, to sow seeds that may outlive us.

The lesson is clear: never believe the lie that kindness is beyond your reach. Even when wronged, you can answer with patience. Even when weary, you can offer a gentle word. Even when poor, you can give your presence, your time, your listening. These may seem small, but in truth they are mighty, for the smallest kindness may ripple across oceans and generations.

Practical wisdom flows from this teaching: begin each day with the resolve to show at least one deliberate act of kindness. Help a stranger without expecting return. Speak gently to those in anger. Forgive when you could condemn. Let kindness be the first step in every interaction, the default choice when all else fails. And when your heart resists, remember the Dalai Lama’s wisdom: it is not sometimes possible, but always possible.

So let his words dwell in your heart: “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” Let them guide your hand when anger tempts you, let them steady your tongue when pride stirs within, let them awaken you each dawn to the truth that kindness is the purest power. For kingdoms fall, riches fade, and glory is forgotten—but the fragrance of a single act of kindness endures forever.