Choose Kind.

We often talk about the things we want to instill into our children. What do they want to be when they grow up. How do we expect them to act, what their family will be like, and how the future will pan out for them.

But the more time goes on, the more I have realized that the thing I want most for my children is pretty simple.

Kindness.

In an effort to give myself a reminder, here are some simple principles for kindness that often get lost in the day to day of life and in turn, our world.

1. You don’t ALWAYS have to say something. 

In fact, you usually probably don’t have to. Give yourself a second to think about it, then rebuke speaking it into existence. Trust me on this one.

2. Your words matter.

In this day and age of Twitter and social media and spouting off the first thing that pops into our brain, we should know by now that words – both written and not matter. You know what matters even more? Screenshots. A delete can only take you so far. Your words CAN be used against you. Choose wisely.

3. Be kind to anyone who serves you.

A cashier, someone in a store, a friend – show kindness. You might be having the worst day of your life. But they might be also. Kindness goes a long way for you and for them. You never know what your act of kindness might do for someone.

4. Be the example.

Whether you have kids around you or not, you are an example. You have an opportunity to help people, to change lives, and to be your best self.

You have the opportunity to be a good human and put that energy into the world – even if those around you choose otherwise. Even if those with the most power in this world choose otherwise.

Choose kind.