From the writings of Grandmaster Moo Hwan Kim
United Martial Arts Black Belt Association
KINDNESS
Dear Students: June 2001
One cold and windy winter afternoon and elderly lady was waiting at a bus stop on a freezing New York City street corner. A furniture salesman saw her and ask her to wait in his store to keep warm. He kindly provided hot tea and showed her around the store. When the bus arrived, he carefully escorted her on to the bus making sure she was safely on board. A few days later this young salesman received an anonymous letter. The author expressed his great appreciation for the act of kindness to the old lady and informed him that he would visit the store to furnish his new home. The unknown person who wrote this letter was the Andrew Carnegie the “King of the Steel Industry” and the old woman was his mother. The furniture store became famous because of that event.
We can learn many lessons from the above story:
Simple gifts of kindness to strangers can change people’s lives for the better. Even though this salesman expected nothing in return, he and his store benefited greatly as a result.
We should never let an act of kindness go unnoticed. Like Andrew Carnegie we must show our gratitude and appreciation for acts of kindness.
Simple acts of kindness were common in American history and helped to make our country great. Our generation and future generations should continue this tradition of showing kindness and a generous spirit in all situations.
The combination of strength and kindness is a powerful recipe for success. A truly strong person demonstrates great character through acts of kindness.
God Bless You,
Master Moo H. Kim