Have you ever had a teacher who fills you with joy the second you walk into their classroom? You know the ones—teachers who make you feel seen and heard, who make you excited to learn, who make you feel like you’re gaining more than just knowledge each day. I’ve been lucky enough to have had many teachers like this, and they’ve taught me what a good person looks like, simply by being good people themselves.
Good people are the ones who show up for others. They don’t just listen to what you say—they listen with their eyes, ears, and heart, taking in every word as if it matters. Because it does matter to them. Good people share kind words that light up the world with hope. They share a sandwich with a friend when times are tough, and they share the environment with the land, respecting it, protecting it. They don’t just exist in the world; they participate in it fully, and they leave it a little better than they found it.
A good person also has the courage to notice what’s wrong in the world and take a stand. They see injustice or pain, and even when it’s uncomfortable—even when their voice shakes—they speak up. They may not always feel brave, but they know that goodness is about stepping up anyway, about using their voice to shine a light where it’s needed most. They don’t let fear or doubt keep them silent.
So, how can you become a good person? Start with something simple. Take a moment to really look around. What do you see that’s flawed, broken, or could use a little kindness in this world? Maybe it’s something big, like the environment, or maybe it’s as small as a friend who needs a little support. Whatever it is, make a plan to do something about it. Goodness isn’t about changing the world all at once—it’s about making small choices every day, in every interaction.
And while you're at it, don’t forget the little things. Be kind to your friends and family. Be kind to strangers. Smile at the person in line next to you, hold the door open, or share a sandwich with someone who could use it. Those small actions add up over time. They create ripples that go further than we realize.
Being a good person isn’t complicated, but it’s something you have to choose, again and again, in all the little moments that make up your day. And that’s what I’ve learned from the teachers who have taught me more than just lessons in a classroom. They’ve taught me that being good is something we can all do, and it’s something that starts right now.
Comments