In the realm of parenting, it’s essential to recognize our own imperfections, as well as those of our children. My partner, Alex, and I entered parenthood with little understanding of the journey ahead. This realization hit home during a parenting class seven years ago when the instructor asked who had never changed a diaper, and we were the only ones with our hands raised. We knew then that our future child was in for quite the challenge.
Acknowledging our limitations allowed us to set realistic expectations for our children. We strive to encourage them to do their best, celebrating their achievements, but our primary goal is to foster kindness. We want our children to extend compassion to everyone, regardless of race, orientation, or background. Yes, this includes those who might seem different from them, whether they are from diverse ethnicities, the LGBTQ+ community, or simply have quirky personalities.
Our family motto is simple: “People are people. Be kind to them.”
Parenting often feels like an uncertain path; you can never be entirely sure if your efforts are making a difference. Over time, however, moments arise that confirm you’re on the right track. Recently, I received a message from my child’s teacher, informing me that she had nominated him for a “Good Citizenship” award due to his kindness and patience toward a classmate named Lucas, who has autism.
Curious, I asked, “Who is Lucas?” The teacher explained that he was the boy my son had been helping. When we discussed it over breakfast, my child excitedly shared, “Lucas is my friend! He just can’t stop being funny!” That innocent perspective melted my heart, and I found myself fighting back tears of pride.
At a recent awards ceremony, I observed my son, who sat quietly, unaware of the honor that awaited him. Just a year prior, he would have struggled to sit still. It’s remarkable to witness this growth in him.
Later, during an end-of-year party, my son greeted me with enthusiasm and introduced me to a boy I hadn’t met before. “Hi! This is Lucas!” he exclaimed. Lucas smiled, and I felt an instant connection; it was clear that my son had embraced the values of kindness and empathy.
The world doesn’t require more selfishness; it needs individuals who embody kindness. I sincerely hope my children can grow into those compassionate people.
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In conclusion, prioritizing kindness over perfection in our children not only helps them grow as individuals but also contributes positively to society as a whole.