We are heading into the holiday season. This means more interaction with store clerks, more time online, and most likely more time with customer service people on the phone. Our words and reaction will to others in all these spaces and places will matter. It’s a time for patience, understanding – and most importantly, simply being nice when we know it can be an extremely stressful time for some people.
Back in 2013 I wrote this blog post. I want to re-publish it as a reminder. Everyone, at every age has the ability to spread kindness with their words. Let’s not forget this as we head into what is supposed to be a season of joy.
Just Be Nice
It is such a simple word, kindness. To be kind to one another seems like such a simple task, yet on almost a daily basis we hear about peer cruelty online (both adults and kids) that will use keystrokes as their weapon of choice to hurt others.
Recently I was at the movies waiting in line. There was young girl, she couldn’t have been more than 12 years-old. She complimented me on my necklace. I thanked her. It was so genuine and nice of her. I thought, wow, this is strange, since tweenagers usually are not so cordial to older people (umm, not that I am “that old”). Then she was at the window buying her ticket and she complimented the ticket attendant on their shirt and how she really liked the color. Kind words.
These are all small words of kindness that can really change the day a person is having and put a smile on someone’s face. The girl’s mother was with her and I wanted to go up and commend her for raising such a thoughtful child, but I didn’t. I wish I had.
Instead, I am writing about this event in hopes all parents will remind their kids that words can be used to lift people up as much as they can be used to break people down.
This goes for adults too. I am now going to make it a mission to compliment others on daily basis, from our grocery check-out person, to you bank teller and your neighbors.
Let’s be real. Most people are on social networking most of the time. Take the time on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or wherever you are cyber-surfing to spread kindness.
Be kind online and remember parents, your children are watching you. If you are gossiping (even in your kitchen) your kids will be mimicking your behavior.
The biggest secret to kindness is that it also makes you feel so good!
Go ahead, pay it forward ~~ be kind online and in person, you will be amazed at your attitude change!
Let’s spread kindness today and everyday.
