But in another book by J. M. Barrie called The Little…
““But in another book by J. M. Barrie called The Little White Bird … he writes …” He started flipping through a small book on the podium until he found the page he was looking for, and then he put on his reading glasses. “ ‘Shall we make a new rule of life … always to try to be a little kinder than is necessary?’ ” Here Mr. Tushman looked up at the audience. “Kinder than is necessary,” he repeated. “What a marvelous line, isn’t it? Kinder than is necessary. Because it’s not enough to be kind. One should be kinder than needed.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He urges exceeding basic kindness, encouraging people to act with extra compassion beyond what is expected.
In simple terms: Be kinder than what’s required.
Key Takeaway
Practice generosity beyond the minimum.
Themes
kindness
empathy
personal growth
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- classroom leadership
- family interactions
- community service
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you gone beyond expected kindness?
- What limits your capacity to be kinder?
A Different Perspective
Being overly kind may lead to self‑neglect.