Be a Human

I came across a quote on Instagram that resonated deeply with me:

"Be careful with what you say to someone; it will be stuck in their head forever."

This simple statement is incredibly powerful. It brings to mind moments from my past that left lasting impressions:

I once believed I was ugly because of high school bullies. 

I stopped opening up about my feelings because someone judged me for the pain I was experiencing, making me hesitant to share my emotions with anyone. 

I doubted my abilities because someone called me “stupid.” 

I questioned my clothing choices because someone labeled my style in a derogatory way.

Strangely, the people who made me feel this way were often religious, with Bible verses in their Instagram bios. I’ve never understood what standard some people use to label others as “good” or “bad.”

To me, goodness is relative. You could encourage or support someone’s harmful actions and be seen as “good” by them, yet be perceived as harmful by those who suffer because of it. I don’t necessarily think of myself as a good person, but I try. And even in my efforts, I know I might unintentionally come across poorly to some people.

This isn’t about my personal story; it’s about what I’ve learned about being human.

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You don’t need to do grand acts, like volunteering or hosting donation drives, to be considered a good person. These acts are wonderful, and I admire people who do them, but being a good person is about more than that. There are small, everyday steps that matter—steps that make us more compassionate humans.

I’ve encountered many types of people:

Some join church groups but judge others easily, as if they’re morally superior. 

I know someone who hands out food to people on the street every Friday but speaks down to others about their economic status or background, as if they’re the wealthiest person around. 

I’ve met people who spread positivity on social media yet shame others’ appearances or bodies.

Do we really need to be rude to others? Doing good deeds, attending church every week, and donating are all commendable, but do they justify belittling someone’s appearance or financial status?

I know life can be exhausting. After a long day, it’s tempting to be curt with an elderly taxi driver who has worked around the clock to support his family. But kindness costs nothing. I know you may have wealth, but a gentle word goes a long way.

We all have ambitions. Some people have dreams of owning a house, a car, or achieving a promotion. And that’s natural; everyone has aspirations. But is it necessary to tear down a colleague in pursuit of these dreams? We often don’t see the full picture of someone else’s life. What if that colleague has been working hard for their family, perhaps to support a sick parent or help a sibling through college? We don’t need to destroy someone else’s dreams to reach our own.

When we’re hungry or stressed, it’s easy to lose patience, even with those who work hard to serve us, like a delivery driver who shows up drenched from the rain. Perhaps they, too, are struggling, maybe even unable to afford a proper meal for themselves. It costs nothing to show kindness, even in the smallest exchanges. A kind word, a small tip, or a simple “thank you” can make a big difference.

You bully someone who, every time they come home, feels lonely. They don’t have a family they feel comfortable enough with to confide in. Do you even know by adding their struggles with unkind words or actions, you’re reinforcing a loneliness that already feels inescapable?

You insult someone’s financial situation while they’re working hard for their family, with a sick mother at home who prays for them every day.

You insult someone’s body while they’re trying hard to diet. You insult them, even though they feel insecure every day looking in their bedroom mirror. We never know. We never know their pain, their insecurities.

A small but essential step toward being a better human is to choose kindness. Be kind in what you say to others. Your words can become embedded in someone’s mind, shaping their self-worth, motivation, and dreams.

If you see someone striving to improve, to overcome past struggles, take a moment to appreciate their effort. Offer support, however small. You may not know how much they’ve had to fight to leave their difficult past behind. Everyone deserves a chance to be better, and sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement.

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I believe everyone wants to grow and improve in their own way. And that’s the beauty of being human: choosing to be kind, even when it’s not easy.

Above all, I hope I haven’t unintentionally caused anyone to feel demotivated at work, insecure, or anxious. If I have, I hope you find healing soon, that your heart feels lighter, and I truly apologize. <3