The Ripple Effect of Kindness: What the Rabbit (and My Dad) Taught Me

The Ripple Effect of Kindness: What the Rabbit (and My Dad) Taught Me
Rise Through Becoming Lifestyle Coaching

We live in a world that often moves too fast, praises toughness over tenderness, and tells us that kindness is optional—an accessory, not a necessity.

But I’ve come to believe the opposite. Kindness isn’t just nice. It’s powerful.

I first discovered this in The Rabbit Effect, a book that tells the true story of a 1970s medical study where rabbits were fed a high-fat diet. Most of them developed heart disease, except one group. The reason? Those rabbits had a researcher who handled them gently—petting them, speaking softly, and offering warmth. Her kindness created a measurable impact on their health.

That story stuck with me.

It confirmed something I’ve seen again and again in both my nursing career and personal life: kindness heals. Sometimes in small ways, sometimes in profound ones. And not just for the person receiving it—for the one giving it, too.

But perhaps the most powerful kindness lesson I ever learned didn’t come from a book. It came from my dad.

A Lesson at the Diner

Years ago, my dad and I were sitting in a local restaurant. We had been waiting for a while when a regular customer came in, sat down, and was immediately greeted by the server. Only then did the server approach us—and the service from that point on wasn’t great. Our food came out burnt. I was frustrated, and I asked to speak to the manager.

But before the manager arrived, my dad quietly asked me, “Why?”

I explained my reasoning: the service was poor, and we were treated unfairly. He listened and then said something I’ve never forgotten:

“Maybe he’s having a bad day. Maybe he really needs this job. Let’s show kindness and appreciation instead of getting him in trouble.”

That moment changed me. It reminded me that what we see is often just a small piece of someone’s story. My dad’s ability to offer compassion when frustration would’ve been easier became a powerful example I’ve carried with me ever since.

Don’t Assume Bad Intent

It’s easy to make snap judgments. To assume the worst. To take things personally.
But what if we paused instead? What if we assumed good intent?

This doesn’t mean ignoring boundaries or accepting mistreatment. It means looking at people with curiosity instead of criticism. It means asking ourselves, “What if there’s more to this moment than I can see?”

It’s a mindset shift. And it matters.

When we give others the benefit of the doubt, we soften the space between us. We give grace. And that grace often makes room for healing—ours and theirs.

Kindness Toward Ourselves

Of course, we can’t talk about kindness without talking about self-compassion.

As women, especially, we often extend compassion to others long before we offer it to ourselves. We show up, give, comfort, and cheer—then beat ourselves up for not having it all together.

But what if, the next time you felt overwhelmed or “not enough,” you paused and offered yourself the same kindness you’d give your best friend?

Try it:

• Place your hand over your heart.

• Take a breath.

• Whisper: I’m doing the best I can.

• Say: I don’t have to get it perfect to be worthy of love.

• Ask: What would kindness look like right now—for me?

Kindness Is Contagious

From a research perspective, kindness has ripple effects. It lowers stress hormones, improves mood, boosts immunity, and increases trust and connection in relationships.

From a human perspective, it just feels good.

So the next time you’re at a restaurant, in a meeting, or even driving through traffic, try what my dad taught me. Pause. Choose kindness. Assume good intent. You might just shift someone’s entire day—or your own.

And when it comes to self-compassion, remember: You deserve the same tenderness you give to everyone else. Your nervous system responds to kindness. Your heart does, too.

It’s not weakness. It’s wisdom.

Your Invitation
This week, I invite you to:

1. Offer grace before judgment
2. Check in with your own heart
3. Assume the best, even when it’s hard
4. Speak to yourself like someone you deeply love

Because you are worthy.
You are doing your best.
And kindness—toward others and yourself—will always matter.

With warmth,
Sandra
Nurse Coach | Rise Through Becoming Lifestyle Coaching
risethroughbecominglifestylecoaching.com