Kindness goes a long way

As I was walking my daughter to her classroom the other day, I exchanged pleasantries with the crossing guard, and said my usual “Thank you.” He smiled, said “You're welcome,” and I continued walking toward the school.

He and I have this interaction, or some variation of it, pretty much every day.

But this day was different. This time, a parent walking nearby said, “WHY would you say hello to the crossing guard?”

I was floored.

This man is part of a support team that works hard to keep our children safe, and he deserves polite parents – and students too.

I also believe in teaching by example. I want my daughter to be appreciative of the people around her, who work with her every day – be it a teacher, a crossing guard or a janitor.

The better question, I think, is why WOULDN'T you say hello?