The buddy bench – SEL

A friend recently told me, “Walking through my son’s schoolyard, I noticed a bench painted bright red. I asked my son, “Is that the only place to sit around here?” He said, “No, that’s the buddy bench. When someone feels lonely or they have nobody to play with, they sit there, and kids ask them to play.” What an inspiring idea ..!!I then told him how wonderful that was and asked him if he ever used it. He said, “Yeah. When I was new I sat there and someone came and asked me to play. I felt happy. And now, when I see kids on it, I ask them to play with me. We all do.”This simple anecdote teaches so many things.
1. Don’t hesitate to ask people to give you company if you are feeling lonely.
2. Don’t be immersed in your own self so much, that you don’t notice another’s silent cry for help. Look around.
3. Everyone needs someone at some point in life. Step up and help someone when you can.
4. Appreciate life giving you new friends. For that to happen, you need to welcome new experiences.
5. Be childlike and innocent, and don’t overthink. Ask for what you want. Life has a way of giving you what you want when you help yourself.
6. What you give comes back to you, manifold. Give someone love and a little of your time. You will be blessed.
The best helping hand is at the end of your own arm. Help others, and you help yourself .. we all need a buddy .. Let’s keep a buddy bench for all …!!!