We expect misbehavior in toddlers, not adults.  We should have learned to be kind and manage, even in the most stressful conditions without causing anxiety in others.  We are already exhausted and stressed after the isolation of the pandemic. Have we forgotten how to behave with others?  While throwing tantrums appears to be more common in the world today, it is an immature way to react as a person and ultimately accomplishes nothing.

Being kind and considerate is far healthier. Incivility can take many subtle forms, and it is often prompted by thoughtlessness rather than actual malice. There is a great poster that has been around for along time “Everything Important I Learned in Kindergarten”:

• Say you’re sorry when you hurt somebody.
• Live a balanced life—life is one time show.
• Be KIND
• Play FAIR.
• Don’t hit people, ever.
• Put things back where you found them, avoid clutter.
• Clean up your own messes.
• Don’t take things that aren’t yours.
• Say you’re SORRY when you HURT somebody.
• Wash your hands.
• Share with others.
• Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.
• Live a balanced life — learn something new every day.
• MOVE enough so you need a nap occasionally.
• When you go out in the world, stick together.
• Remember the Dick-and-Jane books and the first words you learned: LOOK & SEE.

Practice kindness all week and see how much happier and healthier you become!