To The Tenderhearted

Sometimes the most crushing burden to carry is that of a tender heart. Tenderhearted people are those who genuinely feel the pain of others. It is more than compassion or a willingness to help in times of need. These are the ones who feel the burden of the hurting and who genuinely do care for the rest of the human race. These are great men and women who make a difference in our world.

Scouts and Scouters learn that we are not all so blessed as to have a tender heart. For some of us (I am included in this), it takes an effort to feel on that deep a level. Not that we do not care, but our emotions are not that strong as those who possess a tender heart. One of my favorite descriptions is from American author and clergyman Lawrence G. Lovasik: “A gentleman has his eyes on all those present; he is tender toward the bashful, gentle toward the distant, and merciful toward the absent.” There is an awareness of those around you that is so important to your success.

“Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear, and the blind can see.”

Mark Twain

1837-1910

Author

Being tender is to care for the feelings, thoughts, and dreams of others. It is to be ready to encourage and support those around you. Scouts learn that everyone is different, and therefore you cannot treat all people the same. Yes, all people deserve courtesy, respect, and kindness, but how you do that is different to different people. Communication styles and temperaments may change person by person, but kindness can conquer all. Albert Schweitzer said, “Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate.”

Scouts understand that tenderness will accomplish more than all the determined ambition in the world. No one has achieved greatness by running over the feelings of those they must deal with. Poet Robert Frost said, “There was never any heart truly great and generous that was not also tender and compassionate.” Tenderness is not a weakness but a great strength to those who see its value.

Remember that we are all on a rough journey in life. The people you meet, each have a story of trial and difficulty. Be kind to all and do your best to feel the struggles others are facing and help them through. As Ruth Graham said, “Just pray for a tough hide and a tender heart.”     

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey