"When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind"
- Dr. Wayne W. Dyer
Have you ever read a book that somehow changes your perception of things? The book Wonder by R.J. Palacio did that for me. Although this book was published in 2012 when I was in 7th grade, I recently read it as I was finishing my freshman year of college. And even though it may be a "kids book" the lessons from this book are still so important, no matter what age you are. Wonder inspired the "Choose Kind" movement, an initiative to spread bullying awareness and a reminder to be kind, even when it is difficult.
Just for a quick summary, Wonder tells the story a fictional 10-year-old named August (Auggie) Pullman who is getting ready to attend school for the first time after years of being homeschooled. Auggie Pullman is not like most kids, he was born with a facial difference that caused him to have many surgeries over his young life. As Auggie prepares to start school, he is incredibly nervous to be in a new environment around new people who aren't used to his face. Throughout Auggie's first year in school, Wonder examines his trials, tribulations, and triumphs in fifth grade.
There are definitely parts of Wonder that are sob-worthy. On more than one occasion, Auggie his made fun of because of his facial difference and constantly questions "why me?". Even though Auggie is only 10 years old, his character is wise beyond his years. He feels compassion for others because he knows what it's like to be the odd one out. He is forgiving and kind and seems like the kind of kid that you would love to babysit for. Throughout all the hardships that Auggie faces during his first year at Beecher Prep, he still maintains that compassion for others and begins to "roll with the punches". Throughout the course of Wonder, you see Auggie mature and begin to accept himself for who is really is.
When I started reading Wonder, I had no idea the effect this book would have on me. I found myself crying, laughing, and cheering for Auggie. But the most important takeaway (without spoiling too much) is to always, always, always Choose Kind. Being kind to others is something we can forget to do in our everyday lives. If we are at work and someone is rude to us, we automatically get mad and frustrated and think of how great it would be if we could say something rude back. But, you truly never know what personal battles others are facing. They could have a sick child at home or a spouse overseas or suffering from their own personal affliction. I struggle with "Choosing Kind" daily but rereading Wonder every couple of months has helped me become more self-aware of the decisions I make in regards to others feelings. Wonder may be directed to a younger audience, but I truly believe that every person on this planet would benefit from reading it.
