A mother recently shared a heartfelt account of how her daughter supported a friend during a troubling time. Children often possess a wisdom that we may overlook, and by paying attention to their perspectives, we can learn how to be better individuals. This was the lesson one mother discovered when her young daughter reached out to comfort a friend who had been subjected to a racial insult.
Jessica Lane, a bestselling author and creator of the blog Moments of Love, recently posted a touching photo of her daughter and her friend at a local football game on social media. The two girls, aged 10 and 11, have been friends for three years, having met at a neighborhood lemonade stand. While the photograph captures a sweet moment, it’s the bond between the girls that truly resonates.
Lane describes how they consistently support one another, both in minor ways—like discussing new glasses or basketball camp—and in significant ways, such as standing up for each other during tough times. “I’ll always remember how my daughter reacted when her best friend faced a racist comment on the school bus one day,” Lane shared. “When I asked if she was okay, she tearfully replied, ‘She didn’t say anything, so I just moved closer.’ Then she hesitantly added, ‘I didn’t know what to do, Mama, so I just hurt with her.’”
Those words deeply impacted Lane, and she believes there’s an important lesson in their simplicity, especially in a world filled with division and animosity. “What if we all remembered that saying ‘I’ll hurt with you’ is a powerful response when we’re unsure how to help?” she posed. “What if we looked into the eyes of our fellow humans to acknowledge their stories and pain instead of turning away? What if we recognized that our privileges would be more meaningful if shared with others?”
While it may sound idealistic, Lane argues that such a vision isn’t out of reach. It begins with us and our children. “Keep in mind that your children are observing your words and actions,” Lane emphasized. “Transforming the world starts with one small, kind gesture towards a single person.”
Many believe that combating racism and discrimination requires loud protests and demonstrations, but Lane reminds us that meaningful actions can also be quiet and integrated into our daily lives. “If you encounter someone in need, try to extend compassion without judgment,” she advises.
Encouraging Kindness in Children
So how can we encourage children to embrace kindness? Beyond recognizing opportunities to show love in everyday life, Lane’s children actively seek ways to express compassion—volunteering at nursing homes and animal shelters to offer companionship to those who may be lonely. She encourages her children by expressing how proud their acts of kindness make her. “When you see your children demonstrating compassion, let them know how much it means to you!” she suggests. “Allow them to follow their hearts when they feel compelled to help someone.”
Cultivating an open heart and practicing empathy like Lane’s daughter is essential in today’s world. Simple gestures of love can ignite a wave of kindness. “This is how we change the world… we start with one act,” she concludes.
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In summary, a mother shares how her daughter supported a friend who faced a racial slur, emphasizing the importance of empathy and kindness in addressing social issues. This story illustrates how small actions can lead to significant change and the vital role children can play in fostering compassion.