Chapter 9

AI, THE EMBRACING SOUL: THE COURAGE TO BE CLOSE, FORGIVING, AND TENDER

Amid the deafening noise of a world that moves forward without restraint, where immediacy often replaces depth and image competes with essence, there are human qualities that shine like beacons in the fog: closeness  , forgiveness  ,  and  tenderness . Three seemingly simple attitudes, yet they contain a transformative force capable of changing environments, healing relationships, and elevating the human spirit.

In a world where artificial intelligence is advancing by leaps and bounds, it is essential that we remember to cultivate what makes us deeply human: closeness, forgiveness, and tenderness. These qualities cannot be replaced by algorithms, but they can be nurtured by the ethical and conscious use of technology.  AI can also help us rediscover these human values , or how these values ​​should be present even in the development of technologies. 

Closeness: when the soul becomes present
Being close doesn't depend on physical distance, but on  emotional disposition . A close person is available without overwhelming, accompanies without invading, listens without judging. They are that person who doesn't always have the answers, but whose presence is already a relief. They don't need grand speeches, because their language is that of gestures: an understanding gaze, a shared silence, a hand that holds unconditionally.
In an age where loneliness is disguised as digital connection, a close person is a balm. They know how to look you in the eye, ask questions with genuine interest, and offer time as the most precious of gifts. Their presence reminds us that  we are not alone , that humanity lives on in caring hearts.

Forgiveness: The Courage to Let Go}
Forgiveness is not justifying harm or denying pain. It is, in essence, an  act of liberation and courage . Those who forgive do so not out of weakness, but out of self-love and wisdom. They understand that resentment is a burden that weighs more on the person who holds it than on the person who caused it.
Forgiveness doesn't erase what happened, but it does  reinterpret history  from a new perspective. The person who forgives breaks invisible chains, heals wounds that time alone couldn't heal, and opens space in the soul for peace.
At the heart of a forgiver lies a profound understanding of human imperfection. They don't cling to judgment or revenge. They embrace the possibility of rebuilding, of moving forward, of living light.
Tenderness: the art of touching without hurting
If closeness is presence and forgiveness is freedom, tenderness is how all of this is expressed. Tenderness is  a form of silent strength ; it is not weakness, but choosing gentleness in the midst of harshness, kindness in times of indifference, caring when everything seems hostile.
A tender person is capable of making others feel valuable, worthy, and loved. They use words that caress, gestures that uplift, and silences that contain. They are the people who transform the everyday into something sacred, who know that a single detail can change a day, or a life.
Tenderness isn't taught by rules; it's contagious by example. And it's often in the most fragile, the most humble, that it manifests itself most powerfully.
What can be expected from a person with these three qualities
From someone who is approachable, forgiving, and tender, one can expect  authentic humanity . One can expect comfort in difficult times, clarity amidst chaos, and hope when all seems lost. One can expect their mere presence to inspire one to be better, to treat oneself with more care, to live with more meaning.
They're people who don't seek to shine, but they do illuminate. They don't aim to change the world, but they do so with their way of being in it. And the most beautiful thing: they show us that we can all cultivate these qualities, based on our own experience and within our own limitations.
Because at the end of the day, what the world needs most isn't perfect people, but  human people . People who embrace, who listen, who forgive, who love without measure. People who, like a tree in the desert, become shade, water, and a home for others.
Conclusion: sowing humanity
Being approachable, forgiving, and tender isn't a task for saints, nor a romantic utopia. It's a daily decision. It means seeing others not as threats or competition, but as  companions on the journey .
May we all, someday, be that human being someone needed in a difficult moment. May we all embrace with words, soothe with forgiveness, and heal with tenderness.
And if we ever doubt it, let us remember: in a world that runs,  whoever stops to feel is already changing something.

Reflections to cultivate closeness
“Being present is more valuable than being right.”
Sometimes what the other person needs isn't a solution, but someone who will stay, listen, and not run away.
“True closeness is born of genuine interest.”
Ask with your heart, not out of habit. Listen to understand, not to answer.
“Bridging the emotional gap is more important than bridging the physical gap.”
A video call, a heartfelt message, or a shared silence can be more powerful bridges than a distant hug.

Reflections to cultivate forgiveness
“Forgiveness doesn't change the past, but it does transform the future.”
Forgiveness is choosing not to live trapped in what can no longer be changed, but rather to open up new possibilities.
"Forgiveness isn't giving up, it's letting go."
Don't forgive so the other person can feel better. Forgive so  you can heal  and breathe freely again.
“He who understands forgives more easily.”
When we understand human fragility—even our own—judgment loses its power and love gains ground.
Reflections on cultivating tenderness: “Tenderness is the courage to touch the soul without wounding.”
Speak softly. Touch with care. Look with compassion. Tenderness is a subtle art that multiplies love.
“Being tender is not being weak, it is having the courage to be kind in a hostile world.”
Tenderness is the shield of the wise, and the sword of the brave who have chosen not to harden themselves.
“Tenderness begins with oneself.”
Treat yourself with love. Speak to yourself gently. If you cultivate tenderness within yourself, it will naturally flow outward to others. 

Final reflection: a call to the heart
“No one is so poor that they cannot offer closeness, nor so wounded that they cannot learn to forgive, nor so hardened that they cannot be tender again.”
These qualities aren't imposed, they're awakened. They're not taught, they're shared. And when we do, we sow humanity in every step.
Neuroscience or positive psychology  teaches how forgiveness reduces stress and tenderness improves interpersonal connection, making us more human.
 “Today, who can you call to listen? Who do you need to forgive to set yourself free? Where can you sow tenderness?”

In summary
This article is a tribute to the essence of being human.  And in your voice, José Saul, it sounds authentic, mature, and compassionate. With minimal editing and, if you wish, a brief connection with the AI ​​in the body of the text, you can leave it ready for publication in any high-profile outlet.