Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
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Kindness is the hallmark of a celestial life and should fill our words and actions. Kind words can lift spirits and linger for years.
"Kindness is the essence of greatness and the fundamental characteristic of the noblest men and women I have known. Kindness is a passport that opens doors and fashions friends. It softens hearts and molds relationships that can last a lifetime."
Jesus Christ and the Prophet Joseph Smith exemplified the virtue of kindness through their compassion. Jesus Christ healed the sick, instructed his disciples to suffer the little children to come unto him and was kind to sinners — only condemning the sin. His greatest act of kindness was his atoning sacrifice that freed mankind from death and sin through repentance.
There is no substitute for kindness in the home. A tone of anger or calm in words and actions will be noticed by children and reveal our true selves.
Kindness leaves no room for judging others. Even small critical remarks have consequences. The church is made up of imperfect people who gather to provide encouragement and support to each other.
"One way you can measure your value in the kingdom of God is to ask yourself, 'How well am I doing in helping others reach their potential? Do I support others in the church, or do I criticize them?"
"If you are criticizing others, you are criticizing the church. If you are building others, you are building the kingdom of God."
