This is something that has been on my mind A LOT as of late. I don't know if it's because of all the hate that has been openly posted all over facebook or the fact that my big kids will be going to school in a little over a year but none the less... It's been on my mind.
I distinctly remember learning about the golden rule in elementary school. It was on the "word of the week" board in the lunchroom. When I first saw it I thought... "That is such a great idea" (at the time I think I was being picked on and wanted nothing more that to just "fit in")! Now that I'm a grown women with a family of my own I love this concept even more. When it comes to my family I'm a "beast" (don't mess with mine and I won't mess with yours). I had been taking the defensive approach. I didn't trust anyone... I thought everyone was out to get us... everyone was mean. I know it was a bit over the top but living in a big, crazy city I felt like I had no choice. There are crazies everywhere you go and it's so busy. BUT... I've realized something. By living life that way I wasn't happy (shocker). I wasn't nice... to anyone... not even myself. I felt this strong hate growing inside of me and it was scary. Then it hit me. I was going about this all wrong. Why was I fighting "mean and ugly with mean and ugly"? Wouldn't life be so much easier if I was kind? Wouldn't it be more likely that people would show kindness if they were shown kindness? So needless to say, I've changed my approach. I smile more. I say things like "hi" and "thank you". I try to encourage my children to involve others in their play... And guess what?? I'm happier. I'm nicer. My children like me more. I like "me" more.
After my change of heart, I realized I wanted to start teaching my children about being kind. I've been trying my best to prepare the big kids for school in every way I could think of. Letters, numbers, shapes, colors... kindness wasn't on the list (but I think it should be). I want my children to know everyone deserves love and respect. EVERYONE. That includes themselves. I want our home to be full of love, kindness, respect, and understanding. I want our home to be a "safe place" where my children feel free to be who they are and express to us their concerns. I want them to know that even if they feel differently (about anything) than I do, then they will still be shown love and kindness.
I feel being kind is one of the most important things in life! When I think of Christ and his teachings I of course think of love but even more than love I think... kindness (you can love someone and not be kind). Christ was perfect... spotless. He had every right to be judgmental but he wasn't. He was kind. He was forgiving. He was compassionate. He did condemn sin but He still loved the sinner. A perfect example. I want my children to have "love for one another" and to live the golden rule. Not just towards others but towards themselves as well. I know that if I want them to be this way I must teach by example. So I'm going to keep smiling, keep thinking outside of myself, and keep striving to be kind. I will think kind things about myself. I will praise and not tear down. I will be a follower of Christ.
