And Gentlenesss for All

Couched in between two of my favorite verses is this kind reminder, "Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near." (Philippians 4:5)
Usually, that's not a tough one for me. But when facing a trial or struggle, it becomes a challenge to be gentle to everyone. Especially when some people really push your buttons... I am supposed to be gentle in my response?
Some definitions: "The quality or state of being gentle, especially in mildness of manners or disposition. Benignly gracious or kind in manner. Not harsh or stern. Mild, considerate and tender. Honorable, noble, distinguished."
Wow, that's a tall order. Not harsh or stern? Considerate and tender? Honorable, distinguished? All of that is supposed to be evident in my life to everyone? Everyone?!?
OK, I'm going to need some help here with that. I need to start thinking about how gracious God is toward me; how kind he is to always hear my needs; how he gently restores me daily.
I guess I need to grow some of that fruit - patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, self-control to name a few. Interesting that they all seem to share a common theme. All blessing me to bless others. In gentleness.
So today I'll be taking a few deep breaths, keeping my eyes on things above, and making an effort today to be gentle to you and everyone else. (But it would really help if you would all be gentle toward me, too! Thanks!)