“Stories of kindness can be powerful,” writes CareNotes author Karen Katafiasz. “They’re life-affirming counterpoints to the atrocities, selfishness, and hate that fill so much of the news. They reassure us that most people are basically good.” And these kindnesses, whether given or received, can be transformative and healing. Katafiasz suggests that when we open ourselves up to an “attitude of gratitude,” we become more in touch with our own pain and vulnerabilities, allowing us to reach out to others with understanding and compassion.

By Karen Katafiasz