Be Kind

You’ve all seen the meme. You’ve probably reposted it. “In a World where you can be anything you want.... be kind.”

A few years ago, I asked my grown children what was the ABSOLUTE WORST thing they could have possibly done in our family. What action would upset me the most? What would disappoint us, their parents, more than anything else? And although I asked each one separately, at different times, they ALL gave me the same answer. Be unkind to someone. Treat a person, or an animal unkindly. 

They were correct.

They are kind people. They are intelligent, well-read, inquiring, independent, successful people, and they are kind. Kind to humanity. Kind to animals. Kind to each other, their spouses, children and parents.  Helpful and respectful. They are just really good humans. 

They are the kind of people who notice and react. Who empathize and comfort. Who understand when to help and what to do.

They are the type of people who will find water for a thirsty stray, put a bird back in it's nest, catch the bug and place it outside in it's rightful place, understanding that every living creature has a purpose, and arbitrarily killing ANYTHING has consequence.

As adults, each one has already chosen a profession which makes this World a better place. Our oldest, is a college professor, teaching not only Psychology, and Statistics, but Life lessons. He reaches out to, and supports his students while challenging their brains. He urges them to think, question, and try to see different viewpoints.

Our daughter is a Pediatric Dr. of Neuro-Psychology, specializing in Oncology, Cardiology and Traumatic brain injury. She has blessed many, many children's lives and always goes the extra miles to help their parents through one of the most difficult challenges of their lives. It's obvious to all her patients how much she sincerely cares about each of them.

Our youngest son is an Environmental Urban Renewal Landscape Architect who specializes in historical revitalization. He's the one sent into cities and areas, who protects the culture and history of the area, while "greening" it up, so to speak. He listens to the voices of the locals, and preserves what is important to them, while serving their needs by updating the facilities. 

AND they married kind people. I don’t think they could have tolerated anything less. 

We are proud and we are blessed.

So very blessed.

For in this world, where they can be anything they want, they still choose to kind.

They are our gift to the World. 

She released this fish. She ALWAYS releases the fish. It's her favorite part of fishing. :)