Where current events lead us to believe that apathy and cynicism are expected, average behavior – it’s more important than ever to remember that being mean isn’t normal. Kindness is normal. Even if the world makes being kind feel weird, it doesn’t matter. Kindness matters. Kindness is normal.
Indeed. Kindness is essential.
This is true even from a purely selfish perspective, because people will tend to treat you as you treat them. You get what you give.