The Golden Rule Extended

As Royal Rangers and Missionettes, my children learned the "golden rule" early:

Therefore, all things, whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.  Matthew 7.12

But you need to get a step further and go the "extra mile" in the "golden rule:"

Don't just do what you would have others do for you, but pay careful attention so that you do what the other person would rather have you do, which is sometimes different than what YOU would want!  This prepares the boy/girl differences early, and hopefully trains your children for dealing with different personalities.

Practically speaking, when you do something for others with your children, do a little "spy investigation" together of what the other person would need, or want you to do.  If you do this regularly with your children, you will help them to be a blessing in the way the recipient needs!

Challenge:  Find someone to help or encourage with good deeds, and do for them something they would really like done.  Maybe pick up a few groceries for someone, and make sure you get all their favorite things!  Or walk a meal or a few cookies over to an elderly neighbor who lives alone.   Teach your children to "investigate" before doing something for someone so they do something that the other person will really appreciate!