One of my favorite quotes is by Dr. Wayne Dyer. The quote is “When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind. — Dr. Wayne W. Dyer” Dr. Dyer was known as the “Father of Motivation.” Recently I saw the movie Wonder, where this quote was used as a precept for a Jr High class. This is such a powerful saying; “choose kind.” Being kind is a choice. It is not always the easy choice. However, it is the right choice.
I teach a Jr High class where this seems to be an issue on a daily basis. There are times when their personalities clash with other classmates and their words are not always kind. I constantly remind them of this quote. I tell them that for the rest of their lives they will be in situations where personalities will clash, with neighbors, or with co-workers. Remember that in the end, everyone will be remembered for something. Most of the time people will not be remembered for being right all the time, but people will be remembered for being kind. It would be great to have it said about you, “I remember them. They were always kind to me.”
This is an important concept to keep in mind during the holiday season and all year long. At holiday time people are usually at their best. Giving is up and holiday cheer is spread. In general, most people are happier and nicer around this time of year. What about after? What about the rest of the year?
Dr. Dyer also said, “How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.” Although I do not believe in karma, I do agree that you have a choice in the way you react to people and situations.
If you are one of those people that are worried that giving someone too many compliments will give them a big head; I’m guilty of this myself. Don’t worry, there will always be plenty of others not choosing to be kind.
Make the choice to be kind and you will always be right.
