Where has the compassion gone? This is a question that many people ask themselves over and over again. Gone are the days of caring for others in need or lending a helping hand. Acts of compassion are often few and far in between. Children today are growing up in a society where “self” is of the prime importance. Unfortunately, this leads a society full of people who care about no one but themselves. In a world full of pain and suffering, you are left with the ultimate responsibility of teaching your children compassion. As you strive to show them how to be compassionate, you may find that your attitude towards other changes as well.
But, how?
Teaching your kids compassion doesn’t have to take up a lot of time or really even be something that you have to work towards. Compassion should come naturally. It should be a part of your everyday life. Compassion comes when you love and care about other more than yourself. Putting others first is the key. The following are ways that you can incorporate “compassion” into your daily life.
- Help when help is needed. If you see someone stranded on the side of the road, stop to lend a helping hand. Offer them a ride or to use your cell phone to call for help.
- Give when someone is in need. A fact of life is that there will be others who are less fortunate than you are. Allow your children to see you giving to others. Whether it is money or food, a little or a lot, give when you can. Encourage your children to give as well.
- Visit the elderly and the sick. Showing compassion doesn’t have to cost you a dime. Teach your children to care for others by taking them to visit the elderly in the nursing homes or to the hospital to visit the sick.
A change for the better
As you teach your children compassion through leading by example, you are not only encouraging change in a world that so badly needs it. You are also giving them a glimpse into the world as God sees it. The Bible gives commands that you should love and care about others more than yourself. It gives strict instructions that you are love and help neighbors when they are in need. By teaching children compassion through charity, you are encouraging the qualities that God calls for in the Bible. While there can never be a perfect world, it can certainly be a better place than it is now. How different would society be if everyone had compassion?
It is impossible to change the world. What is not impossible, however, is to make a difference in the world around you. Teaching your children how to be compassionate is a great way to leave behind a legacy. Compassion leads to a chain reaction. If you show love and respect for others in need, your children will do the same. As they grow up, they will teach others around them the very same thing. Let compassion begin with you as you instill the qualities within your children. How can you make a difference in the life of someone today? Remember, it is as simple as lending a helping hand.
About the Author:
Olivia Nicholas is a writer and a busy mom. She is always happy to share her passion for life and experiences through her work, and in her spare time works as a freelance writer for Storkie.
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