The Hidden Power of Kindness: A Practical Handbook for Souls, Who Dare to Transform the World, One Deed at a Time

Sophia Institute Press, October 1999. Paper Back. New. Please, do not judge this book by its cover - especially the infomercial synopsis on the back. Fr. Lovasik's insights into the practices of kindness may seem deceptively simple, even quaint, but he captures the elemental purity of the selfless deed without becoming precious: ''Kindness springs from the soul of man; it is the nobility of man - a divine rather than a human being... he obligations of gratitude seem to lengthen and deepen, so that your life is delightfully committed to a profusion of kind actions.'' This practical, clear-spoken manual equally petitions the interest of a twelve-year-old or a grown man of sixty. Fr. Lovasik writes something like the Desert Fathers in a straightforward, surprisingly balanced tone - here, on Greed: ''Love of gain and the practice of economy are part of the natural love of self that God Himself implanted in us. These natural virtues have been given to us in order that we might make our own existence and well-being secure... reed pursues a similar aim, but with evil means. Greed robs a person of love of neighbor.'' Constructive spiritual directions for overcoming habitual unkindnesses order the book as chapter headings - <i>Avoid passing judgment, Resist greed in all its forms, Control inordinate anger, Learn to bear others' offenses, Dedicate yourself to truth, Be charitable in your speech</i> - concluding with a helpful series of questions appropriate for self-examination.