Have you noticed that a small voice has the power to gain the most attention? Is it because you must lean in to hear? Is it because you must come closer to the person to hear? Maybe it is the tenderness of the gentle voice that brings us close and causes us to respond in the same way.
Most of us do not aspire to be a gentle person. Gentleness does not appear to be a trait that can take you far in the world. Not at first glance. However, a soft-spoken person is not a weak person. It requires great strength to control your tone and volume of your voice. Especially when you are upset or frustrated. To be gentle requires just the right amount of love and truth as you speak. It is something that if we get right can improve all our relationships. I think we all want better relationships. Especially since relationships are the vehicles to getting where we want in life. If this is true, then gentleness can take you far in the world.
If you find that you are having a relationship issue with a spouse, a child, or a friend consider speaking gently to them and see if they will lean into you. Use your strength to balance love and truth. Who knows someone may choose to be gentle with you, too?