Kindness and considering the needs of others are character qualities that we all hope our youngsters exceed in. Seeing these qualities develop in them is rewarding. Today it was particularly rewarding.  The great grandmother in our family typically sits quietly as conversation swirls around her; she's hard of hearing so she doesn't often engage in the conversation at our Sunday gatherings.  

 

As a former homeschool mom, I am always looking for teaching moments.  I recently asked our youngest grandson if he would teach his great grandmother a new card game. So, he presented the idea to her as, "I have been assigned to teach someone a new card game. Would you help me by letting me teach you?" She kindly consented because she wanted to help him. It was refreshing to see his ingenuity, patience and kindness. When GrGrandma had difficulty remembering the instruction to choose a card that is 1 number higher or lower than the displayed card, he created a visual and she actually enjoyed playing the new game.

 

This small act of kindness benefited both: she loved the conversation and he recognized how a rather small effort on his part had a significant impact on her day. It created a greater bond between the two.