Finding Strength Through Acts of Kindness

GLADYS WONG Energy Healer, Spiritual Counselor & Writer

First published: May 30, 1999

Seeing the Missionaries of Charity Sisters at the airport on my way to Peru reminded me of their global mission to serve the poorest of the poor. Their simple, traditional white saris with blue borders brought back memories from my childhood. I often saw Mother Teresa on television, a pilgrim devoted to alleviating the suffering of those in need. Her selflessness, compassion, and kindness have inspired me to strive for greater empathy in my own life.

Mother Teresa is well known for her humble service. She engaged in countless selfless acts, encompassing the physical and emotional care of the sick, poor, and needy. One symbolic act of her service was washing the feet of those she cared for, embodying humility, respect, and love. As a bodywork therapist, every time I work on a pair of feet, I think of Mother Teresa washing the feet of beggars in Calcutta.

One day, a client asked me to come to her home to give her dying mother a final massage. I entered my patient’s room and was immediately overcome by the pungent smell of pharmaceutical drugs. As I touched her frail, failing body, her skin was dampened by sweat, carrying a distinct medicinal odor. I assumed it was from the years of painkillers she had taken, slowly finding their way out of her deteriorating body.

I knelt before the 99-year-old lady, and as I held her worn-out feet, a flood of emotion filled my heart—her presence humbled me. Her feet were bent, and the toes were crooked. Touching them gave me gratitude and respect for one’s body; we are often unaware of the strain our feet endure—we take them for granted.

I gently massaged my patient’s feet, hoping this small act would bring comfort and support as she approached the final steps of her life journey. When I finished, I leaned in to whisper my gratitude for the privilege of serving her over the years, wishing her a gentle passage to the next phase of her journey. With a warm embrace, a kiss on her forehead, and a heartfelt farewell, I bade her spirit goodbye.

I hope my presence soothed my patient’s physical pain. Often, we do not realize how much pain and tiredness we carry in our bodies until we are touched, cared for, and loved. Comforting words and caring touches help the body recuperate from tiredness and restore energy. Say kind words and hug often. Being sensitive to others’ feelings and compassionate towards one another can help us heal.

Mother Teresa’s faith fueled her incredible resilience and unwavering commitment. We, too, can draw strength from our beliefs and values. We can embody the same spirit of love and compassion through small, everyday acts of kindness and humility, such as caring for those around us in their most vulnerable moments. Remember that every smile, gentle touch, word, and selfless act contributes to a world where empathy and support flourish. May we all, regardless of our background or circumstances, strive to walk in Mother Teresa’s footsteps, finding meaning and purpose in serving others and enriching their lives and ours. In the end, it is through giving that we truly receive.

Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing” ~ Mother Teresa

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