To Be Kind

People who purposely pursue being kind and caring are looked at the same way people who pursue good manners are as if there was something wrong with them. We have gone from a society where manners and kindness were drilled into us, to one where they are seen as oddities. We are told we must always look out first for number one. Scouts and Scouters understand that is true; they also know that they are not number one. That is the other guy.

Scouts are taught that as good manners open many doors in the business world, kindness is a vital part of success. American Philosopher Samuel Johnson stated, “Getting money is not all a man’s business: to cultivate kindness is a valuable part of the business life.” People want to be around kind people; they trust kind people. You may think that no one notices, but kindness speaks more about you than your looks, education, or title. As advice columnist Ann Landers said, “Keep in mind that the true meaning of an individual is how he treats a person who can do him absolutely no good.”

“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world.

 For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.”

Margaret Mead

1901-1978

Anthropologist

When we show kindness to those around us, we improve them and our self. Scouts do not show kindness to get ahead in life; they do it because they are kind people by nature. Scouts understand they must work at their kindness, and it is the fifth part of the Scout Law. The Greek Philosopher Aesop said, “No act of kindness no matter how small is ever wasted.” 

Remember that all actions have consequences. That is true if you show kindness to others or if you are unkind. The only thing that changes is the type of consequence you receive. When we mistreat people, it will always come back to bit us in the butt. Do not think that the person you are treating unkindly is unimportant or will have no effect on your life? It is not the person who brings the consequence; it is the action itself.

Singer Annie Lennox said, “Ask yourself: Have you been kind today! Make kindness your daily modus operandi and change your world.” Have you been kind? Your acts of kindness can and will change your world. All you have to do is perform them.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey