As my children transition into their teenage years and prepare for college, my aspirations for them remain as profound as ever. While the focus has shifted from conventional measures of success—like career achievements and academic accolades—to more meaningful, transformative experiences, I find myself contemplating a different type of bucket list.
Like many young individuals today, they have their own lists filled with thrilling adventures—journeys to far-off lands, swimming with sharks, and mastering new languages. However, my vision for their future emphasizes acts of kindness, bravery, and unique experiences that can be just as impactful, if not more so, than extreme sports or exotic travel. I call this my compassion checklist for my kids. It encompasses a range of both simple and profound actions that I hope they will revisit throughout their lives:
- Advocate against bullying, standing up for those who may not have a voice.
- Be a protector for the elderly facing exploitation.
- Express gratitude to a war veteran with a heartfelt handshake and a “Thank you for my freedom.”
- When witnessing someone struggle to pay for groceries, offer to help.
- Instead of hosting a lavish Thanksgiving, serve meals to those in need.
- Provide someone with their very first job opportunity.
- Offer babysitting services to anxious new parents.
- Defend the free speech and religious liberties of individuals with differing views.
- Dedicate a vacation to volunteering for a cause close to their heart.
- Coach a youth sports team, sharing skills and time before starting their own family.
- Contribute to someone’s holiday joy by paying off their layaway for toys.
- Assist a stranded driver with a flat tire.
- Help maintain a neighbor’s yard that has become overgrown.
- Support a friend in leaving an abusive relationship.
- Step in to give a weary caregiver a much-needed break.
- Offer your premium seat to a soldier, a pregnant woman, or someone with disabilities.
- Allow stressed individuals to cut in line, doing so frequently.
- Always leave generous tips, especially for those working overnight shifts.
- Gift thoughtful presents to the staff who help maintain your work and home environments.
- Check in with aging parents regularly, simply to say hello.
- Bring joy by singing at a nursing home.
- Never hesitate to do what is right, regardless of the circumstances.
- Prioritize experiences over accumulating wealth—don’t leave life with a large savings account.
- Honor the last wishes of someone dear.
Imagine the world we could create if individuals prioritized these acts of compassion over the thrill of skydiving. The impact would be monumental.
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In summary, the compassion checklist I envision for my children emphasizes life-altering experiences that foster empathy, understanding, and community connection. Encouraging them to embrace these actions can create a ripple effect of kindness in the world.