If you’re writing a list of New Years’ resolutions this season, one to consider putting near the top of the list is: be kinder.
“It’s a little facile, maybe, and certainly hard to implement,” said writer George Saunders in a convocation speech at Syracuse University, “but I’d say, as a goal in life, you could do worse than: ‘Try to be kinder.’”
Aside from making everyone’s day brighter, there are also some scientific benefits of being kind. Studies show that a little kindness can help reduce stress levels and improve mental and physical well-being.
So being kind makes you feel good and it’s good for you—not to mention everyone else around you! And best of all: modeling kindness teaches our children to be kind. It’s contagious!
So what’re we waiting for? There’s no better time to look for ways to be kind than now.
Deliver seasonal baking to a neighbour, have kids sort through their old toys and choose a few to donate, give someone a sincere compliment, make someone laugh, hold open a door for someone, smile! When it comes to kindness, no gesture is too small.
“Do all the other things, the ambitious things—travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers…but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness.”
To help you have a happy holiday season and get 2023 off to a great start, this issue includes articles on navigating the holidays, setting—and accomplishing—goals, the love-hate relationship with Elf on the Shelf and teaching boundaries. There’s a Holiday Gift Guide to help narrow down your Christmas shopping list, the WCF readers’ list of Family Favourites and a travel feature on celebrating the season in Seattle. And don’t miss GRAND, a special feature specifically for grandparents. There’s something for everyone!
All the best of the Holiday Season and Happy New Year!
From Our Family to Yours.