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Parenting
By Jenna L. Hartman
Date: July 3, 2023
As my children transition into their teenage years and prepare for college, I find that my aspirations for them remain as expansive and ambitious as when they first entered preschool. However, my focus has shifted from conventional measures of success—like financial stability and academic achievements—to fostering profound, transformative experiences for their lives.
Like many young people today, my kids already have a list of adventures they want to embark on—traveling to distant lands, swimming with sea creatures, hiking majestic trails, and mastering new languages. Yet, my vision for them diverges significantly; I envision a compassion bucket list focused on acts of kindness, bravery, and unforgettable moments that offer deeper fulfillment than even the most exhilarating skydiving experience.
This list includes a blend of both simple and remarkable actions that I hope my children can pursue repeatedly throughout their lives, as these moments are not merely one-time occurrences:
- Advocate against bullying, even when it involves strangers.
- Serve as a guardian for the elderly who may be exploited.
- Thank a war veteran by shaking their hand and expressing gratitude for their sacrifice.
- Intervene when witnessing someone struggling to afford groceries by offering to help.
- Volunteer during Thanksgiving, prioritizing service over a lavish family meal.
- Provide someone with their first job opportunity.
- Offer babysitting to anxious new parents.
- Stand up for the free speech and religious rights of those with whom they disagree.
- Dedicate a vacation to community service.
- Coach a youth sports team prior to having children of their own.
- Clear someone’s layaway for holiday gifts.
- Assist a motorist whose vehicle has broken down.
- Tidy up a neighbor’s yard that has become overgrown.
- Support a friend in leaving an unhealthy relationship.
- Give a caregiver a much-needed break, even if they feel tired themselves.
- Yield a prime seat to a soldier, an expectant mother, or a person with disabilities.
- Allow stressed individuals to cut in front of them in lines consistently.
- Generously tip service workers, especially during late-night shifts.
- Present thoughtful gifts to those who help maintain their home and workspace.
- Regularly call aging parents just to check in and say “Hello”.
- Perform a song at a nursing home to bring joy to residents.
- Act without waiting for permission when it comes to doing what is right.
- Avoid accumulating wealth at the expense of experiences.
- Honor someone’s final wishes with dignity.
Imagine a world where individuals prioritize these meaningful pursuits instead of merely chasing thrills like skydiving. The impact could be profound.
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In summary, my hope is that my children embrace a life of compassion, finding joy in giving and making a difference in the world around them.
Keyphrase: Compassion Bucket List for Kids
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