What experiences in life helped you grow the most?

When we are young, we are often told that bad things happen to help us learn.

While this is fairly true…what about when good things happen? I feel we take those moments for granted.

As an example, I am Afro-Mexicana. So all of my days, my parents and other older African Americans around me often spoke poorly about Caucasian individuals.

My experience, however, was the complete opposite. Most of my friends in school were white – and kind. Their parents were kind. So I didn’t view them the way I was taught.

I remember bike riding, and blowing my tire. I cursed at myself for not bringing my tire kit to repair my bike while I was out. I had to walk my bike home, which wasn’t too far. The sound of tires approaching me came from behind, as I heard a female voice cry out,”

“Are you hurt!”

It was a white woman. I said no, but the way I felt was good. She took time to assess me, she was curious and wanted to help, and it took nothing for her to ask.

Most of my teachers for art courses were white – and most of them ALWAYS coddled my gifts. Genuinely hoping I would never stop.

This isn’t to say blacks never had – I’ve received support and accolades from both sides. But kindness was my guide, and kindness allowed me to see people for what they were beyond skin color, social standing, and sex even.

Pain burns the raw edges and shapes us. Kindness fills the void left by that pain, and helps mold our understanding or situations and the world around us.