Wednesday Wisdom - Educating the Heart

"Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all."

Aristotle

A new school year can bring a lot of excitement and fun times with new and old friends. It can also bring some problematic days and hurt feelings. Kids aren't always going to get along. They might have disagreements with classmates. They might claim someone is being mean. They may have said something they regret or hurt someone's feelings. These can all be opportunities for lessons.

Something we talk about often in our house is not making it worse. If you think a friend or classmate is being mean, retaliation or more meanness will not improve the situation. No matter how sure you are the other party is wrong. Be kind. Apologize if you were harsh. Take ownership of your actions, with no expectations for the other party. Maybe a relationship can be mended, maybe it will teach you how not to behave. At the end of the day, you can only control your own actions and response.

Take the time to discuss interactions at school, just as you review homework and grades. Educate the heart and they will find the right friends who support your values.