Popular Poem Categories:
Occasion & Holiday Poems:
Showing Kindness To Others
These five poems by Daniel C. Colesworthy remind us that even the smallest act of kindness can make a difference in someone's life.
Have you ever thought about how much better our world would be if each of us showed just one act of kindness every day? A thoughtful word, a helping hand, or a simple smile may seem small, but to someone going through a difficult time, it can mean so much.
Showing kindness does not require money or special talents. We can all find ways to encourage others, offer forgiveness, and show that we care. These poems remind us that the good we do, even when no one notices, can bring comfort and hope to another person.
Updated October 8, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
One Deed Of Kindness
Poet: Daniel C. Colesworthy
One deed of kindness every day
Be earnest to perform;
One mite give to the poor away —
One shelter from the storm.
One word of comfort speak to him
Whose brow is dark with care;
One smile for her whose eyes are dim
By sickness or despair.
One look of kind compassion give —
One motion or a sigh;
One breath to bid the dying live —
One prayer to God on high.
What joy one moment may impart,
If it is spent aright!
One moment saves the broken heart
And puts despair to flight.
All can bestow most precious gifts —
The weak, the low, the poor;
The feeling heart from sorrow lifts
To Heaven's wide-open door.
Kindness
Poet: Daniel C. Colesworthy
In every breast, however rude,
There is a glow of love,
A latent spark of gratitude
That words of kindness move.
If every pain and care we feel
Could burn upon the brow,
How many hearts would move to heal
That strive to crush us now!
Forgive Thy Brother
Poet: Daniel C. Colesworthy
Forgive thy brother who has erred,
And take him by the hand;
And, as you speak a generous word,
Assist his feet to stand.
Joy sparkles in his eye to hear
Thy words of gentle tone:
Forgiveness breathed upon his ear,
And love and kindness shown,
Will make him rise to life again,
And shun the path he trod,
When in the round of Folly's train
He broke from Truth and God.
Forgive thy brother, even now
A smile is on his cheek;
The glow of heaven has tinged his brow
Speak, and forgive him; speak!
Humble Deeds
Poet: Daniel C. Colesworthy
It is not those who make a boast
Of generous deeds which they perform,
Who for the needy do the most,
And find them shelter in the storm.
He who has never raised his voice
To gain the plaudits of a crowd
Has often made the hearts rejoice
That with oppressive chains were bowed.
In humble life meek virtues spring
To glad the heart, to bless and cheer,
That never fly on eagle's wing,
Or on the printed page appear.
The Good Man
Poet: Daniel C. Colesworthy
Within his ever-peaceful breast
No angry feelings rise:
Contentment is his constant guest,
And every want supplies.
If blest with wealth, he daily gives
The needy at his door;
If poor, he thankfully receives,
Without a grasp for more.
While others murmur or complain,
With joy he looks abroad,
And in the sunshine and the rain
Sees the kind hand of God.
In pleasantness and peace his days
Pass happily away;
Angels, approving, on him gaze,
And round his dwelling stay.
Key Reflections In These Poems
-
Small Acts Make a Big Difference
We do not have to do something grand to help another person. A kind word, a smile, or a helping hand can bring comfort to someone who needs it. Never underestimate the good you can do.
-
Kindness Includes Forgiveness
We all make mistakes, and sometimes we need someone to show us understanding. When we choose forgiveness instead of anger, we give others an opportunity to make a fresh start.
-
Good Deeds Do Not Need Recognition
Some of the kindest people never seek praise for what they do. They simply help because they care. The good we do matters, even when no one else sees it.
Popular Pages
If these poems encouraged you to show more kindness, you may also enjoy these poems and quotes about compassion, forgiveness, and helping others.
Our Kindness Quotes
remind us how much a thoughtful word or deed can mean.
Pass It On
encourages us to share the kindness we receive with others.
Our Apology Poems
remind us that saying sorry can help mend a relationship.
Find words of hope and encouragement in our
Inspirational Poems.
Our Heaven Poems
offer comforting thoughts about faith, love, and eternal peace.
Conclusion
Daniel C. Colesworthy's poems remind us that kindness is not measured by how much we give or how many people notice what we do. It is found in the little things we do each day to make life better for someone else.
Think about the people you meet today. Is there someone who needs a word of encouragement, a little understanding, or a helping hand? One simple act of kindness may brighten their day more than you realize. And when we each do our part, we help make the world a kinder place.
More Famous Poems to Inspire