~ Aggression Vs. Kindness ~

I was searching for some ideas and one of the web page got my attention. It is very interesting topic to read, I guess for me hehehe.


We are living in a society where the aggressive and strong are rewarded, yet our parents teach us to be kind and considerate. We are sent out as young adults into a world that is fast paced and where we are forced to work hard for the things we want in life. In this society filled with aggression, can a person be aggressive and still maintain kindness? First let’s look at the meaning of each of these words. Kindness as defined in the dictionary is sympathy, consideration, benevolence and generosity. Aggression is defined as an unprovoked attack; hostile activity. However, the term aggressive can have more than one meaning. The second meaning in the dictionary implies that aggression can be defined as characteristic of someone full of enterprise, and initiative; someone who is bold and active, aggression as power of action. Although aggression is often considered a negative quality it does have some positive aspects. In our society we need aggression as power of action to do well and prosper. Considering aggression does not necessarily mean being hostile, aggression as power of action is compatible with kindness. A person can be bold and strong therefore holding a kind of aggression and still be kind to others. For example, if a person is trying hard to accomplish something, pushing themselves, being aggressive to make happen what they want, they can still maintain kindness to those around them. They can be polite to friends, family and coworkers. There are many ways that aggression as power of action can also be in conflict with kindness. A person may be trying hard to reach a goal, but while doing this they forget to consider how others are affected by their actions. They may push harder than needed and hurt others in the process of getting what they want. In such a case this person is no longer being kind. It is easy to see that aggression as hostile activity is incompatible with kindness; attacking others is hurtful and dangerous. Being hostile towards friends and family is not only hurtful to them, but is also usually hurtful to oneself. Being aggressive in this manner can damage relationships and have a negative impact on ones life. There are times when it is hard to tell if you or someone around you is being too aggressive or just being bold and taking charge. However, there is usually a noticeable difference. For example, in the workplace, if you are looking for a new job, you could be aggressive in a positive way by not giving up and pushing to succeed. On the other hand, if you were to try and steal someone else’s job than you would be using aggression in a negative manner. Allowing oneself to be aggressive is a delicate business. Aggression should be avoided when possible, as positive aggression is easily turned into negative aggression. If everyone is conscientious of their actions and uses aggression with caution it can be a positive quality and can help to create what people want in their lives.

What do you think?