“I have told you these things, so that in ME you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” -John 16:33
This verse has been on my mind more than ever lately. The world seems to be SO sad and angry as of late. Most likely it is because of the Presidential Election taking place and tensions are high and maybe I am just more aware as I age and pay closer attention than I ever used to. It’s not that I’ve never cared about our world in the past, it’s just now I have young children that are relying on me and my husband to be their example and guide as they grow. The pressure of that sometimes seems overwhelming!
It can seem overwhelming because as I watch the news and see all the controversy and hate going around it sickens me to have to raise up little, innocent children into a world that is truly corrupt. Now, don’t get me wrong… I absolutely believe there are plenty of amazing Godly people on this earth, but I am also well aware that this world is not my final destination. God is waiting for me to one day enter into the gates of Heaven and be with Him for eternity! That is such an exciting reality and truth to live by and look forward to. But it isn’t a free pass to stay shut-in behind doors and not stand up for what is right. God put each and every one of us on this earth for a divine purpose, so IT IS our responsibility to spread His love and kindness when others try and destroy and ruin His name!
I want my kiddos to grow up in a household filled with love, laughter and kindness. Knowing that in this home, their home, they are safe, cherished and loved… even if the world tries to tell them anything different about themselves. As parents, Paul and I want to instill certain values into Lazar and Mila (just as our parents instilled in us), to put God first and #1 in every aspect of their lives. Before they will be able to understand that concept, it is our goal to teach them to BE KIND in a world that isn’t always so kind.
“I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in ME should stay in darkness.” -John 12:46
BE KIND, even when being kind isn’t the “cool” thing to do. This one is never going to be easy…as a young person or an adult! I have never felt guilty or bad about choosing kindness. It is the way God intended us to act, so it needs to feel natural rather than tried.
BE KIND, when it would be easier to just walk away and not deal with it at all. Sometimes we may not be directly faced with the dilemma we are witnessing, but its important to step in if we see a situation that needs it! I believe God has us exactly where He wants us for a very specific reason each and every second of every day, so if you feel it in your heart to step up in a situation do it!
BE KIND, always! The term, “kill em with kindness” really does work! SIMPLE.AS.THAT! Rather than reacting to someone, show them the act of kindness instead! It is incredibly hard to put pride aside, especially with heavy issues, but keeping cool and collected is always a better route that you won’t regret later on when everyone cools off.
I realize that life isn’t a Disney musical where everyone sings a little song and suddenly we all get over our differences and get along. It is ok to have differences… It is ok to have conflicting opinions… But it is NOT ok to treat people as if they are less than you because of those differing mindsets. Social media plays such a pivotal role in this issue, people love being able to spew hate while hiding behind their computer screens… So sad. I believe that if we would just use tools like social media to spread kindness rather than hatred our children just might follow in those same footsteps and have a better shot at making this world a better place after all!
Seriously BE KIND to one another! ALL lives really do matter and showing love to ALL goes a long way!
Have Faith Mama(s)…
XO