“Do Unto Others as you would have them do unto you.”

– Matthew 7:12

Showing Christian kindness at school can be a challenge, but it’s important because there can be much unkind teasing and even bullying at school. So, start by deciding not to initiate or join in unkind teasing or ridicule of others. Instead, look for something you can affirm or compliment, or if you see a classmate feeling sad or shut out, reach out to try to include them and be a friend. As the saying goes, “Catch them doing something right” and praise that.

Christian kindness at home grows from a willingness to think about the wishes and needs of the other people in the home. Rather than always insisting on watching your favorite TV show, playing your favorite video game, or even having your favorite meal, how can you be considerate of what others want? Helping with less pleasant home chores can also be a kind surprise that lightens someone else’s load.

The first key to showing kindness at work is to refuse to get drawn into a “dog eat dog” kind of competition. Do everything you can to show an attitude that says, “We all succeed or fail together.” Always focus on the ultimate purpose of any workplace, which is to satisfy customers, not to advance one worker at the expense of others. Do your work with excellence but seek to support others who are also working hard and to express appreciation for team members who have made a difference on your projects.

One of the best ways to show kindness to strangers is to cultivate habits that eliminate the feeling of being a stranger. Start with a smile. Introduce yourself and ask their name. Even if they initially act distant or even rude, do not reciprocate with rudeness or unkindness of your own. Remember what it feels like when you are the stranger in a situation. Do your best to bridge the distance between people, and not add any negative energy to the distance between you and a stranger.

Worship is live at our Floris-Restoration locations in Herndon and Reston. No matter which location you attend, you’ll find friendly people who are ready for your visit.

Isn’t it ironic that so many of us talk to ourselves in ways and with language that we’d never think of using to a friend, a classmate or co-worker, or even to a stranger? God loves you and would never berate you even if you’ve missed an appointment, made a poor choice, lost some money, or misplaced your car or house keys. So don’t do that to yourself, either. The best way to learn from a mistake is to recognize what happened and identify one or more ways you could be less likely to repeat the mistake. One other key: resist comparing yourself to other people. Be yourself and learn to value what you bring to the lives of others.