Why are we kind to stupid people?
For me, ‘stupid’ is a way to describe a person who knows the right thing or the right way to do something, but does the opposite.
I was driving on my way home earlier today when I saw a car (a sedan, four cars away from mine) that illegally took a U-turn. I don’t think it was ever a safe spot to take a U-turn, given the road’s orientation—vehicles coming from the opposite direction are on a “descending slope” (sorry, I don’t really know the correct way to call it) and cars from where I was are on an ascent. So if you are a sensible driver, you wouldn’t interrupt a descending trail of vehicles, especially when trucks or cars are building up for ascent. Momentum is interruptible, but why would you?
Anyway, because this car took a U-turn, both sides of the road had to stop, including the lane I was in. We all had to take a pause and watch this group of men in a sedan slowly make a U-turn because they had to back up a few times just to turn—because the curve wasn’t really designed for such turns. I’m being redundant here.
My question is, why did the drivers from the descending side of the road let this one vehicle take the turn when there’s a clear sign that forbids U-turns? Because this actually happens. Maybe not regularly, but it happens. Is it because the turn was already on its way? Because it’s just one vehicle, where’s the harm in letting one pass? Because we must “share the road”, and kindness never hurts?
Kindness is never wrong. In fact, I hope everyone would be kind—giving compliments, in making decisions, in giving judgment, in everything. Like that line in “Wonder” (the film) that says, “If you can choose to be anything, choose kind.” or something like that.
If kindness is a person, I take that it is a ‘she’ and she’s pure and honest. Kindness sees the good in people and doesn’t listen to what other people say; she always hopes for the best, hoping the goodness she exudes will spread faster than wildfire. And ultimately, kindness doesn’t choose her recipients. She’s just kind, no matter who the receiving end is—whether that person was ever rude to her, has done her the worst things in the past, or that person ever referred to her as stupid.
But how can kindness be stupid, when all she did was be her true self—honest, pure, and hopeful? Maybe when it’s displayed in the wrong places. When it’s misplaced in the wrong contexts.
You see, there’s nothing wrong with being kind on the road. Some people need grace, and we will never know what other people are going through, so maybe a little kindness on the road pays off. However, what makes kindness wrong is when we “okay” on the bad things, thinking (or hoping) it won’t be a regular thing. We give an okay sign to drivers taking illegal U-turns for kindness and consideration’s sake, but when things get sour, say a multiple vehicular incident takes place because of this little kindness gesture, will we still be kind to one another or look for parties to blame?
To abide by a “U-turn not allowed here” sign is simple. It’s never hard like a heart vs. mind decision. But is this really just because of that illegal U-turn? Of course not. It’s just that all wrong practices, all bad habits begin with that one attempt—that “let’s just let this one pass,” type of deal. Before you know it, that one successful effort grows into a person’s practice, and then is shared with other people, calling it the “working smart” or “get rich or die trying” scheme.
I’m not discouraging kindness from existing, because we all need it. The world needs it. But do not use it to perpetuate the wrongs, the illegals, hoping it won’t happen next time. Kindness should be a force for change, a catalyst for accountability, not a way to gloss over issues that need to be addressed. It’s crucial to complement kindness with courage and action. We must uphold our values, confront injustices, and advocate for what is right, ensuring that our compassion leads to real solutions rather than enabling harmful behaviors. Only then can we foster an environment where kindness truly flourishes, creating a positive impact without compromising our principles or perpetuating wrong practices.
In conclusion, as we navigate a world filled with diverse perspectives and varying levels of understanding, it is essential to approach those we consider less informed with kindness and empathy. Instead of labeling others negatively, we can foster an environment where dialogue and learning thrive. Recognizing that everyone is on their unique journey of growth allows us to engage with patience and compassion. By being kind to those we might view as "stupid," we not only uplift them but also contribute to the collective betterment of our communities. Let us remember that kindness is a powerful tool for change, and it can bridge gaps in understanding, ultimately leading us towards a more inclusive and thoughtful society.
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