From Chaos to Kindness

Day 15: From Chaos to Kindness

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Usually my family holidays are both fun and chaotic. I’m not a fan of chaos and I’m not a fan of teasing once it crosses a line. My family likes to tease, “ball bust” and poke until someone gets their feelings hurt. What starts out in “fun,”usually escalates into feelings being hurt, then to an argument and finally a full out mud slinging fight of insults. This year, instead of participating and then later feeling bad, I very gently reminded everyone to speak kindly. I also asked often, “Is that really necessary”? Those two statements, became my mantra for the day.  What could have turned ugly, quickly dissipated and everyone ended up having the best Thanksgiving we’ve had in years. Even the kids got along. I lived the quote: “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” and a miracle happened. By living in kindness, and by gently encouraging those around me to do the same, we had a beautifully kind Thanksgiving where everyone felt, loved, safe and grateful for being together. Much better than the usual fun and thrilling, yet potentially hurtful and chaotic family gathering. 

1. Kindness to Self:

   I was kind to myself this year by assigning everyone a dish to bring, instead of trying to do everything myself. Everyone was happy to contribute and pitch in. The day was joyful rather than exhausting.

2. Kindness to Others:

   This year I chose to live in gratitude and in kindness. I was able to spend quality time with everyone and it was truly special.

3. Kindness to Strangers:

   I didn’t quite have the chance to interact with any strangers yesterday, but I had the chance to be open and grateful for all the different personalities that came to our home. Isn’t that what kindness to strangers is all about, being kind, open and accepting of our differences?

4. Kindness to Our Planet:

   Without outing anyone in my family, I took over doing the dishes so that I could control the amount of water being used. We are in a drought people!

Jennifer Palazzo

Photo Courtesy of FreeImages.com/GrazynaSuchecka