Posts Tagged ‘Killing them with Kindness’

So if you are like me and you have ever found yourself passing the hours in an airport terminal, and because you are bored, it is easy to pass the time people-watching. For some strange reason, I find people fascinating in their own environment. Whether it is the wardrobe they decide to put on, or the companions they select as company, there is something truly telling about observing people in their element. And yet at the same time, you can’t help but notice some behaviors from so-called “adults” that are really quite shocking.

Now guys, I don’t claim to have all the answers, but in my time observing, I was frequently stunned by the way some folks decided to interact with one another—particularly those who appeared to be married. To give you an example, I witnessed a truly heart-wrenching exchange between a couple, man and a woman and I am telling you, the behavior I saw this man display was absolutely saddening.

Now you know I’ve spent quite a bit of time on this blog reflecting on marriage and the fundamental way we choose to interact with one another. In fact, I actually wrapped up a two-part series where we explored the idea of killing people with kindness and the power of paying it forward (links are down below). It’s amazing how simple, everyday choices that you and I make change everything for our friends, but especially for our spouses.

Yet as I stood there, witnessing that scene with growing frustration, seeing a husband choose to be so deliberately cruel toward his spouse, it truly broke my heart. In the end, fueled by his own anger, he simply walked away—leaving her stranded and solitary in that terminal. I couldn’t help but wonder, watching from afar, how a couple like this ever began their journey together? When you witness such a tragic decline, you have to ask yourself… were there ever any better times?

Yet when I think about this now, and everything that led up to that moment I witnessed in the terminal it hit me that all those simple, everyday choices between that couple somewhere along the way were broken. He went from kindness to cruelty. And that point alone seems to be forgotten by people who are rushing through their life and travels, just trying to reach the next destination.                                          

And what is just plain sad is that, some people’s hard wired reaction towards other people is just cruelty…

I’m telling you, it’s truly painful to witness these moments. Because when you strip everything else away, our FAMILY is our only true legacy and if we decide to treat our loved ones with the same coldness I saw in the airport that day,

You will end up being alone. 

And even though you may not see this in your present situation, it will be a tragedy in the future when it comes to pass. Guys, here is the truth, these situations can be avoided. Moreover, it doesn’t take a genius to choose kindness.

Jesus was asked what was the greatest Commandment of all, and he replied, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13

And then he said…“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:33

Or, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her”  Ephesians 5:25

Or, “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” Colossians 3:19

Guys, as husbands and fathers, we are called to love, encourage, and build up our families…not destroy. 

If you have anger problems, I encourage you to seek help from your pastor…and when the opportunity presents itself, choose kindness.

Until next time Guys,

Iron-man Strength (IMS) Team

Wright, Kent, “Killing them with Kindness,” Ironman Strength, December, 24, 2024, iron-man-strength.com

Wright, Kent, “Practical ways to Kill them with Kindness – Part 2” Ironman Strength, December, 26, 2024, iron-man-strength.com

“Kindness is a language we can all speak. Even the Deaf can hear it and the Blind can see” Mother Teresa

Guys, in the entire history of this blog, I have never quoted Mother Teresa, but in this instance, with this topic, it is completely appropriate. I have been thinking about this topic for quite some time  and decided for this New Year, I wanted to share this alternative idea of responding to anger and frustration with kindness and compassion.

I have broken this post into 2 parts, so it can be read and consumed a little easier. The second post is my application of this kindness topic called “Practical Ways to Kill with Kindness” and it will be posted very soon.

Our world is marked by competition, conflict, and negativity, and the phrase “killing them with kindness” carries a HUGE meaning. It suggests a simple yet powerful truth: 

Kindness can disarm hostility, dissolve tension, and create connections in ways no other force can. 

Honestly, kindness is the complete opposite response to what we see every evening on the news.

But what does it mean to truly “kill with kindness”? And why does it make sense for us to practice it, especially in situations where kindness seems undeserved? I have compiled a short list for you to consider.

The Unexpected Strength of Kindness

So as men, kindness is often mistaken for weakness. Sometimes, people assume that being kind means letting others walk all over you or ignoring an injustice. In reality, kindness is a conscious choice that requires core strength, resilience, and HUGE patience. It’s about responding with grace, even when faced with negativity or a conflict. 

Choosing kindness is taking the high road when everyone expects you to do the alternative.

When you meet rudeness with kindness or counter aggression with a calm compassion, you do more than just take the moral high ground—you alter the angry energy of the entire interaction. This change can have a ripple effect, influencing not only the person you’re engaging with but also those who witness the exchange. I want you to remember because this is exactly what Christ did. He disarmed His foes with kindness and love.

Guys, here is why I think that using a kindness response will work for you;

1. It Breaks Down Barriers

When you respond to someone with unexpected kindness, it often catches them off guard. It is hard to maintain anger or hostility when faced with genuine goodwill. Over time, this can disarm negativity and also improve a mutual respect between you and them.

2.It Builds Bridges

Kindness can transform your adversary into an ally, literally. I have seen kindness create a foundations of trust even in the most difficult relationships. In your business, in your families, and in your friendships, simple kindness will open doors that would otherwise remain shut.

3.It Strengthens You

This is the biggest reason why choosing kindness is the right plan because it isn’t just about the other person—it’s about who you are. It reinforces your ability to stay grounded, stay true to your core Christian values, and maintain inner peace in challenging situations. 

Guys, this is fundamentally what Iron-Man-Strength.com is about and has been since the beginning. Yes, my goal has been to encourage and support you through all of the difficult times. I also wanted to remind you that you have an enemy, Satan, who is looking for every chance possible to help you fall off the cliff. 

This is why choosing kindness as your reaction to any situation will change you as a man before God. I wont lie to you and say this is easy to do because it isn’t. When we get mad or upset, emotions take over and even the very best men on on this have or will earth fail. BUT…and this is a big one. IF you allow God to help you, you can change.

As I mentioned up top, the second part of this post is the practical application of “Killing with Kindness” and my hope is that these will be simple steps you can use to help you when these kinds of situations arise. I promise you this is not Rocket Science. It is instead, easy and practical. The process just requires execution on your part.

Merry Christmas, Guys-

Until next time-