A soldier and a woman shared a hug, and the reason why will bring you to tears. Their warm and loving embrace happened between two people who did not know one another. Watch the short but heartwarming clip to see the touching and powerful moment.

The world is often a sad, lonely and frightening place. People have the surprising ability to inflict incredible amounts of needless pain and suffering upon one another. The evidence for this can be seen all around us – on social media, in the workplace, in the news, in our neighborhoods, and, sadly, at times, even in our own homes.

There is too much hatred and division in this world, and entirely too little kindness, empathy and compassion. How difficult is it to be kind to someone? It usually doesn’t take much time, and the monetary cost is typically nonexistent. Who knows, a simple, what we might call meaningless, act of kindness, could be the thing that changes and brightens someone’s day, week or life. We never know the difference our actions will make until we try.

A clip posted on social media captures the aftermath immediately following an Army graduation ceremony. The video’s description states that the soldiers have just graduated from basic training and are celebrating their accomplishment with their family and friends.

However, the clip begins with a woman and a soldier hugging. The woman, a mother-in-law, spotted a soldier who had no family or friends in attendance to witness his graduation. So, she stepped up and offered the young man a hug, and it’s clear that he greatly appreciated her kind and loving gesture.

The woman saw a need and acted without hesitation. She showed kindness and compassion for a young man, who almost certainly greatly appreciated it.

Kindness does not have to involve big, grand gestures. Often, little ones will suffice, and they are usually the most meaningful and appreciated.

Ephesians 4:32 “And be kind to one another, full of pity, having forgiveness for one another, even as God in Christ had forgiveness for you.”