Ever since we were little, we were told to be kind. It’s such a simple concept, and yet sometime during adolescence the idea of being kind became uncool. The adults in our lives still tried to tell us to be kind, but the voices of our peers overpowered them. All of a sudden it was cooler to say an insult, a zinger, something that stung; but caused others to laugh. We knew it was wrong, but the desire to fit in won out. And then once we moved on to high school it seems like we took one of two paths. We either relearned the value of kindness, or we continued to seek the thrill of the perfect snarky comment.

As an adult, I have seen over and over again that kindness always wins. As a teacher, I see that the kind students are actually happier and more well-liked. They don’t have the daily stresses of drama that some other students have. In my own life, I know that when I show kindness in a heated situation, the other person quickly defuses, and we are able to work through the situation. When I have the choice to be kind, or to get even, I always feel better when I am kind. And I feel awful when I choose to get even.

Of course there are times when I run through a situation in my head, and I think about how cool it would have been if I had said, “___________.” But reality never plays out the way we think it will in our heads. And when I do show kindness when getting even seemed like the better idea, I might be frustrated in the moment, but the frustration quickly dissipates and I know that being kind was the better option.

In the end, kindness isn’t just a choice — it’s a way of living that brings true fulfillment and peace. While the world may sometimes tempt us to choose snark or revenge, those fleeting moments of satisfaction are never as rewarding as the long-term benefits of being kind. Whether in the classroom, at work, or in our personal lives, kindness creates stronger connections, less drama, and a sense of inner peace. As we grow older, we realize that kindness isn’t just for others — it’s a gift we give ourselves. So, let’s remember that being kind might not always be the easiest choice, but it will always be the best one.