Living Civics: Rediscovering Kindness and American Values Through Everyday Actions

In a world that feels increasingly divided, fragmented by noise, and moving at an ever-accelerating pace, it’s easy to forget the fundamental values that unite us as a nation. As we navigate through modern life, it often seems that civility, kindness, and respect are in short supply. What was once the bedrock of American society—the very principles of respect, responsibility, and kindness—now sometimes feels lost amid the fast-paced, sometimes harsh realities of everyday life. Yet, even the smallest acts of kindness have the incredible power to unite, to heal divisions, and to remind us of the shared humanity that bonds us all.

The Living Civics: Rediscovering Kindness and American Values series is a 22-week journey designed to revisit the core values that help build stronger, more cohesive communities. Each week, we will focus on one specific behavior or mindset that exemplifies personal integrity, aiming to strengthen our interactions with others. These lessons will focus on everyday actions, such as demonstrating gratitude or respecting personal boundaries, which go beyond mere politeness and help restore the civility that makes America such a great place to live.

Being a good person doesn’t require grand gestures or perfection. It’s about the everyday, consistent actions that demonstrate kindness, empathy, and respect. Through this series, we will examine how the smallest gestures—ones that may often go unnoticed—have a lasting impact on the fabric of our communities. Every action we take shapes the society we want to build. By embracing these lessons, we can each contribute to a culture of mutual respect and understanding, setting an example for future generations.

As we explore each lesson, we will reflect on the impact our actions have on those around us. The behaviors we model today influence the kind of world we will leave behind. Through Living Civics, we aim to promote the power of civics in action and the importance of kindness in all our interactions. By taking each small step toward being better individuals, we are helping to create a better nation for all.

Week 1: Don’t Call Someone More Than Twice Continuously

In the modern era, phone calls are often seen as a convenient way to connect with others. However, in our fast-paced world, many people find receiving repeated calls stressful. According to a 2024 article from The New York Post, a significant portion of individuals, especially younger generations, report that unsolicited phone calls or multiple call attempts can cause anxiety and frustration. This is why it’s important to respect others’ time and space when reaching out.

When someone does not pick up after one or two attempts, it’s best to leave a message or send a text explaining the reason for your call. Doing so allows the person to respond when they’re able and prevents feelings of being overwhelmed. Respecting personal boundaries in this way fosters mutual trust and helps strengthen our relationships.

The values of kindness and respect are essential in building a stronger, more empathetic society. By practicing restraint in our communications, we take an important step in cultivating a culture of consideration and understanding. These small acts of respect have a profound impact on our personal and professional relationships, helping to build stronger connections with those around us.

Through this series, we will continue to explore how small, everyday actions can contribute to a more civil, kind, and respectful society. By embracing these values, we are not just changing our own behavior—we are helping to change the world for the better.