The biggest test of late is this: no matter what happens, can you maintain your equilibrium?

GOOD WILL — © LYON 2026

Can you remain detached enough from the swirling energy and emotions around you that you can make good choices? Be kind, even in the face of something distasteful?

One mis-choice of words or actions can ripple down through years – even generations.

One cynical comment can lose you a life-long friend.You touched a nerve you didn’t know was there, and you are no longer a trusted, safe place to be.

One hateful remark can make an enemy you really could have done without. You awoke their hidden pain harder than a lightning strike. You are now branded #1 to-be-avoided-at-all-cost, retaliate-hurt-if-possible.

So be kind. Be generous. Zip your lips when hurtful words try to emerge. Sit down, cross your arms and hold yourself tight when you’d rather deliver a punch in the nose.

Because you don’t know.

You don’t know what that person is going through, feeling, enduring. The whatever-it-is that makes them obnoxious or too loud or even dangerous.

You just don’t know.

If you must say anything, say, “Seems like you’re having a hard day today. How can I help?”

You will see an instant shift in their face, a slump of shoulder, near-tears in their eyes. Finally, someone has SEEN them, acknowledged them, offered help, even.

That’s enough to break the flow of their anger or fear. That anger/fear is just energy that has been stuck with no way out, no safe way to be expressed. Now they can, if they choose.

Be kind. Everyone is suffering more than ever, these days. We all need kindness.

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BE KIND
© Angela Treat Lyon 2026

more art: https://www.instagram.com/angela.treat.lyon/