Character education is sorely needed by our people today, young and old. The young, in particular, suffer from an acute need of self-respect. I add in old(er) adults because they are the parents of these errant personalities that would bully a senior citizen and others. It IS a lack of self-respect you know, remember, we are reflections of each other. There, but for the grace of God, go I. Remind them that they will be a senior or perhaps in need of courtesy some day. Pay in what you want to get out.

The definition of character that I’m referring to here is: 1) the aggregate of features and traits that form the individual nature of a person , 2) moral quality or integrity, 3) reputation. It is this aspect of our nature that defines our manner(s). The degree to which we have high positive levels of it renders our environment and personal interactions anywhere from hellish to heavenly.

If a child (male or female) is taught to rise to let an elderly person or pregnant woman sit in their seat in private and public places (lines, buses, trains, etc.) when no other seats are available, it is unlikely that that same child will find it prudent to bully same. Good manners for children and respect are taught by giving the lesson and having the child demonstrate the lesson, meaning you take them out for practice or look for practice opportunities. Once this is done, you periodically ask them if they surrendered their seat or turn in line (or what have you) when they come home. It serves as reminder and reinforcement. You can ask them “Where you able to help a senior, pregnant woman or disabled person today?”, “Did you surrender your seat to someone in respect today?”, “Did you hold the door open for someone today?”

There is so much that makes our world a pleasant place to live. The least of which is ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’ Empathy must be magnified in our children if we are to save ourselves!

Do you actively teach your children The Golden Rule?