a kind word.  it can make someone's day less oppressive. a kind word can make someone in pain smile, even for a fleeting moment.  a kind word is like a carress to a battered old soul. a kind word is a a welcome change from things that are ugly.  a kind word can banish sadness, in its own little way.  a kind word fosters friendship, inspires love and is the foundation of respect.  when you mean the kind words you say to someone, then it makes it all worthwhile.  we have far too much lies in this world, too much sadness and strife to keep us all busy for a millenium or two that a kind word is like a moment of salvation from all the things that we call our damnation.