Be kind, but not too kind - from the mouth of a young one

My grandson asked me to take a walk with him, as we walked he said you know grandpa it's good to be kind, but not too kind.

There is wisdom in these words.

I think such a comment requires clarification. As others have asked, what's an example of bring kind, and then not too kind. He may have shown great insight, or perhaps his concept of kindness is somewhat limited.

Still, if we're going to demand such a thing of a child, we really ought to be able to answer it ourselves. Kindness has to be considered in context, imo. So for example, if I've had an inexperienced person on my team, and they're struggling with something, I could be kind and accept they're inexperienced, and do their work for them - which would be kind. However, how is the person going to learn? It would be better if I detailed what was required, or held their hand through the process as they did it themselves. Kindness, but not too much kindness.

On the other hand, giving just because you can, is kindness with no limits. There's too little kindness in this world, and I'm as responsible for that as anyone else.
 
It's true that we don't know what he meant, but it gives adults something to think about.
 

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