There is no shortage of kindness – it just needs to be more evenly spread around

WE respond to crises in different ways. In this last week some of us have sat in queues at petrol stations hoping the pump doesn’t run out before our turn. Others may have joined the convoys of cars who were reported to be following fuel tankers, attempting to be first in line when the driver makes his delivery. Then again, maybe you were like me, thinking: if there is no petrol I will just stay at home (or walk).

One of the things we are good at in this country is responding to difficult situations with humour. I am aware of more than one public house this week displaying signs reading, “Beer Shortage Soon – Panic Buy Here”. But the prize must go to the BBC Breakfast programme who sent out a reporter to see what the situation was like at fuel stations. His name? Phil McCann.

In the meantime as I write this we are assured that the deliveries are increasing, more petrol is available. On a more serious note the whole situation has made me reflect on another aspect of our national life that we need to pay attention to. There is another nationwide shortage. Like petrol, what I am thinking of is in plentiful supply it is just unevenly distributed. Queues may form and people who need this commodity may suffer. I am talking about kindness. Over the last eighteen months we have seen huge outpourings of kindness and generosity in all sorts of amazing ways. As things get back to “normal” let’s ensure that we don’t lose the ability to share and care wherever we can. In the list of qualities that Saint Paul gives that define the spiritual life “kindness” comes right in the centre and there is a reason for that. So if you are thinking of stockpiling, please don’t.

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