Gentleness, or Affectionateness

This is love in society. It is love holding intercourse with those around it. It is that cordiality of aspect, and that soul of speech which assures us, that kind and earnest hearts may still be met with here below. It is that quiet influence which, like the scented flame of an alabaster lamp, fills many a house with light, and warmth, and fragrance.
It is the carpet soft and deep, which, whilst it diffuses a look of comfort, deadens many a creaking sound. It is the curtain which, from many a beloved form, wards off the summer’s glow and the winter’s wind. It is the pillow on which sickness lays its head, and forgets half its misery, and to which death comes in a balmier dream.
It is considerateness. It is tenderness of feeling. It is warmth of affection. It is promptitude of sympathy. It is love in all its delicacy. It is every melting thing, including in that matchless grace, The gentleness of Christ. (2 Cor. 10:1.)