Kindness

As I was on the internet the other day, I saw a picture with the quote by Plato that said, “Be kind for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” We come into contact with many
people every day. It’s important that we make sure to conduct ourselves in a manner that is not harsh or cruel. I’ve learned that you never really know what a person is going through.

© Karaline Krulish 2013

Over the past eleven months since my dad has died, I’ve taken notice how people treat you differently when they find out what situations you are going through. There were times when I would be out shopping and someone I just met would say something stupid and careless. I would respond with, “Well my dad recently died so I apologize if I’m not paying full attention.” Talk about getting a slap in the face. After the shock hits them, people usually responds with “I’m so sorry” or “I didn’t know.” From then on they would be much careful with what they would say.

I myself have learned to be more patient with people. Granted it isn’t an easy task but I try my best. One night my brother, my mom and I were at dinner at a restaurant. Our waitress was doing an awful job and it just didn’t seem like her mind was present. My mom started to criticize the situation and I told her, “Well you never know what she might be going through at home. Just like she doesn’t know what we are having to go through.” My mom looked at me with realization as to what I had said, and from that moment on she was much more careful with what she said that night.

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me”, whoever said that was completely wrong. Words can kill someone. People commit suicide every day because of verbal abuse. It shows the importance of our words and the pain they can cause. You never know what demons a person is dealing with in his or her mind.I make it a point to say hello to as many people as I can that walk by me every day; even just a smile can help someone.

Until next time…
– Karaline (Peanut)