In next week's Parsha the Torah provides a list of kosher and non-kosher animals, birds and fish. One of the birds on the non-kosher list is called "Chasida" which comes from the word Chesed - kindness. In describing this bird, the Talmud explains that "she is kind to her friends" providing them with food and sustenance - hence the name Chasida. This description raises the obvious question: If the Chasida is kind and caring, why isn't it kosher? Isn't generosity one of the greatest traits?

The answer lies in the very wording of the description of the Chasida. "She is kind to her friends". Here lies the problem - selective kindness. Her compassion extends only to those close to her, but not to birds that are strangers.

Sometimes we give significant attention to people we know well but ignore strangers. We may be kind and giving to friends, but not be willing to assist someone we are not familiar with. We might be polite and smile at those that we accept as part of our group but ignore someone we meet in the lift or a workman doing repairs at home.

Compassion, empathy and generosity that are limited to those close to us can be egocentric. It can be a self serving trait that provides a positive image and gains popularity. True kindness means extending ourselves to help and show true respect to those that are not even part of our circle.

When we help someone we don't know we don't get anything back, which is precisely what makes it selfless and pure.

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