As I sit here and reflect on the two years since my brainchild, Keenonkindness.org, came into prurition, there is so much gratitude that comes to mind. Feelings of hope. Feelings of thankfulness. Feelings of happiness. Looking back on the woman I was two years ago when I started this blog, I cannot help but think she would be proud of the woman I am now, and the positive changes that I have made. I have tried to make a difference in the lives of others through this platform. I encourage others, to include others, and choose a kinder path on the daily. This is what I stand for, and what I live for! This Fall begins a big transition for me. I went from preschool teacher, to Assistant Director of a school I love! I earned my masters. I got married!!! I got a diagnosis after praying day in and day out for one for so long. I also started my Doctorate in Behavioral Health in order to better serve the pediatric population. I take a large interest in international research, and enjoy international pediatric behavioral health research most of all! I truly have had so much personal growth in the last two years, but one thing remains. That is, a kinder tomorrow starts with YOU. As the school year has started, I encourage everyone to pick a new friend to sit with at lunch, invite the child who is having a hard time finding friends to sit with at lunch to sit with them, and to have conversations based on interest and intellect instead of shallow topics that will get you no deeper into a friendship than when you started the conversation. Pick your friends based on values! This is so important. It does not matter what is on the outside, or if someone looks different than you, do not be afraid to open yourself up to their friendship. You never know who you will meet. You may meet your best friend, the sibling you always prayed for, your maid of honor someday, or the auntie to your kids in the future. You never know what someone is going through, so always look for the better in them. One smile or kind act could change the trajectory of their whole day. Never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. If someone is being treated poorly, let others know this is not okay. Never let anyone put a negative spin on your dreams, because they are YOUR dreams for a reason! Do what makes you happy, and makes you feel most like you! I pray that over the last two years this blog has brought you peace, joy, and a kinder tomorrow.
If you have read this blog the last two years, please write me an email, or fill out the contact form. I love hearing, even anonymously, how this blog has helped others.
Love,
Kennedy