Kids need to see more examples of kindness.
Our lives are often unduly influenced by the quick comments of others. The lives of our children are affected by these comments as well. Often these remarks and actions are thoughtless.
And…. without some conscious effort on our part— a sort of ‘premeditated thought’ to remain firm to our convictions— we can be swayed to engage with, or even mimic, the poor conduct of others.
This is especially true of children. Children are vulnerable and easily manipulated.
Saying it is understandable doesn’t make it right or excusable.
As adults, we ought to be able to distance ourselves from these displays of rude outspokenness. The words and actions of others do not need to become ours going forward.
As adults, we ought to be able to reason things out. Rash behavior is simply that… rash. We do not need to fuel the irresponsible behaviors by contributing some of our own.
To that end.. let’s talk children.
If society is inundated with displays of poor behavior, we must take action. We ought to endeavor to do more in terms of promoting good behavior.
Set the Example for our Kids
We can make an extra effort to show random acts of kindness. This is particularly important when children are watching.
As it turns out… doing well toward our fellow man produces joy that benefits our own mental and physical health.
The reality states that we cannot change the words and actions of others but we can change our own conduct. Being pleasant, being helpful, avoiding unnecessary confrontations, and keeping our opinions to ourselves, are all things we can do.
Take a moment or two to think about how you can ‘be generous’ toward someone. Give a friendly wave to that harried motorist. They waited patiently while you crossed an icy intersection.
Your easygoing gesture is a small act of appreciation on your part. It didn’t hurt you in the least… didn’t take anything from your day.
It doesn’t mean much, yet it means a lot.
Maybe… just maybe, a young child, from a passing school bus window, witnessed your thoughtful act. And… with no conscious effort on their part, absorbed a random act of kindness as ‘normal’ human behavior.
“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.” Lao Tzu
Thanks for the visit.
Suzanne Rightley authors children fiction stories. Her books provide wholesome, character driven stories for independent readers ages 10+. Find her author page on Amazon.
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