Kidstuff: How to Be Kind: A Scout’s Guide

Cebu, Philippines — One of the twelve points in the Scout Law is kindness, but how does one show it? What are the ways to be kind?

• Say the magic words “please” and “thank you.” Saying “please” when you ask someone to do something for you, no matter how small a favor, will increase the chance of that person agreeing. And when people hear you say “thank you” even for very trivial things, they feel happy knowing that you appreciate their effort.

• When entering a room, you can hold the door open for the person behind you, even if you don’t know him or her. This is very simple but will be much appreciated especially if that person is carrying something with both hands.

• Sit with a friend who seems lonely. You don’t have to say or do anything. You can just sit there and pat his shoulder. Sometimes your silence becomes the best comfort you can give a person.

• Share your food with a friend who is hungry without waiting for him to ask. When it is recess time and you see a classmate not eating anything, take it as a chance to approach him and say “Would you like some biscuits?”

• Help your younger brother or sister with their homework. It doesn’t mean you will be the one to work on their assignments yourself. Sitting with them and being available when they ask questions can already be very helpful. It would also make them happy if they feel that you want to spend time with them by doing your homework together.

• When taking a jeepney, go to the farthest seat (nearest the driver) when you get on. This will give the other passengers after you the advantage of sitting near the exit. Be ready to give up your seat for the elderly. You are still young and will not have a difficult time standing. If your bag is heavy, place it on the floor then say “You may have my seat, Ma’am. I can stand.”

• Clean up your table after eating at a fast food restaurant. There are paid members of the crew to do this but it will make their job a lot easier if you do it yourself. Practice CLAYGO – clean as you go.

• Smile. It is the universal unspoken language of kindness. It can lighten up any load and it can almost instantly make someone feel better.

It actually doesn’t take a lot to be kind to other people. You have it in you. Show kindness whenever you can.