Kindness in words creates confidence; kindness in thinking creates profoundness; kindness in giving creates love.

The saying links three domains—speech, thought, and action—to three human goods—confidence, depth, and love. It suggests that kindness is not merely a social lubricant but a formative force: gentle language builds trust and psychological safety; benevolent inner attitudes cultivate wisdom and “profoundness” by softening ego and widening perspective; and generous giving turns goodwill into tangible care that can mature into love. Framed this way, kindness is presented as a disciplined practice that operates from the inside out, aligning intention, expression, and conduct. Even when attributed to Lao Tzu, the sentiment reads as broadly “Daoist” in its emphasis on non-harshness and the quiet power of yielding.