My friend Victor Armstrong posted this observation today that I think provides an excellent wrap-up to Random Acts of Kindness Week. Victor, thank you for your thoughtfulness and wisdom, and the generosity with which you share them to make the world a kinder place.
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#randomactsofkindnessweek #kindnessalwayswins #kindnessmatters #bekind #makekindnessthenorm #makekindnessahabit #kindnesssuperhero
“Recently I was forwarded a video of a young African American person singing a popular song. The person’s hair looked disheveled, their enunciation was questionable as they seemed to mispronounce some of the words, and the singing was not melodic. This individual however, seemed to be earnest in their effort and they apparently enjoyed singing. What struck me though, was that the YouTube video was forwarded to me as a joke. The responses to the video were laughing memes and derogatory comments. I don’t know the individual who was singing in the video, but I don’t think they intended to be the source of our amusement. I’m not sure if the individual posted the video themselves, or if someone else recorded them and thought they’d have a laugh at that person’s expense. I don’t know if the individual has cognitive disabilities or is simply not a great singer.
“In any case, I was suddenly struck by how vulnerable this young person had become and how cruel we can be as a society. Social media is a powerful tool. It can be the source of great good, like posting random acts of kindness or highlighting heroism. It is a way of celebrating milestones like birthdays and anniversaries, even when separated by continents. I myself, often use social media to celebrate with friends I have made in Australia or the UK. Social media can be used to advocate for, or raise awareness about, causes we are passionate about. Unfortunately, social media is also a way to ridicule or make fun of others behind the anonymity of a keypad, or to say things to people that we would never have the courage to say face to face.
“I am not a singer, but like most of us, I love to sing when I think no one is watching or listening. I would never have the courage to post a video of myself singing. I am not that brave. I wouldn’t want to endure being the subject of ridicule and mockery. Likewise, I would not want that for my children or siblings.
“I believe that the overwhelming majority of people are good and well intentioned. We all want the same things; to live, to love, to laugh. Let’s think before we respond negatively or make derogatory comments about individuals online. That individual is someone’s brother, sister, child, friend, etc. and like all of us, they just want to live, to love, to laugh, and to be heard; not judged or ridiculed.” #LiveandLetLive
