On kindness and giving

So we have new friends.

Recent arrivals to Australia.

From South Africa.

We have so much in common.

She fills my cup and I hope I do the same for her.

She asked us today if we could name one word to describe marriage.

A good marriage!

I am still trying to find just one.

I asked her what her word is.

She told me her word is kindness.

And she went on to explain how he is kind to her.

When she needs it most.

When she has three boys under the age of three.

And he is trying to build his name in his new job.

And he comes home to take care of her.

Not because it is convenient for him.

It is not.

But because he is kind to her.

He gives of himself.

Look at how she looks at him.

She loves him.

So much.

It is a beautiful thing to be part of.

Kindness and giving.

A bedrock of marriage.

I like those words.

"It is well to give when asked, but it is better to give unasked, through understanding;

And to the open-handed the search for one who shall receive is joy greater than giving.

And is there aught you would withhold?

All you have shall some day be given;

Therefore give now, that the season of giving may be yours and not your inheritors." 

-Kahlil Gibran