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A Simple Phrase That Changed Everything
All episodes of The Ellen DeGeneres Show were closed in the same manner. Ellen would approach the camera and tell them “Be kind to one another”. These words spread throughout the world.
This message was heard by millions of people for almost 20 years. It was not merely an assertion of hers. And it was the very meaning of her show. Ellen did not want people to forget that it is good to be kind.
The Power of the Message
The program had uncountable acts of kindness and gentleness. Dysfunctional families were assisted. Hard working teachers received the respect they deserved. Ordinary citizens were honored as having changed the situation in their societies.
These scenes motivated the audience worldwide. Viewers were inspired to act kindly to others when they saw such acts on the screen. The message hit millions of people and led to real dialogue of being better people to others.
But this was not the end of the story.
Learning from Mistakes
On July 20, 2020, BuzzFeed News released accounts of 36 former employees concerning workplace problems internally. They talked of an unhealthy workplace where racism, intimidation, and fear were claimed. This was against the message of the show of being nice to each other.
WarnerMedia was initiating an internal investigation. Ellen wrote an apology letter to the employees. Clearly, something has changed, and I am sorry to hear that this has not been the case. And on that I am sorry, she said. She added that the show had her name on it, and she is the one responsible for whatever we do.
Three executive producers were later fired. The investigation resulted in the change of staffing in the show.
What we can learn here is that people who spread goodness still might fall short. Nobody’s perfect. It is the way we react when we do not.
Growth and Accountability
Ellen DeGeneres’ promotion of kindness also extended beyond words into action, as she frequently used her platform to spotlight charitable causes and individuals making a positive difference. By drawing attention to stories of resilience, generosity, and community support, she reinforced the idea that kindness has a ripple effect—one thoughtful act can inspire many more. This consistent focus helped reframe success and visibility as opportunities to uplift others, rather than simply personal achievements.
These controversies taught us a lesson. Acting kindly should be done everywhere and not in certain places. It entails being as nice to the people you have to work with as to the people you see on camera.
Actual kindness is done in intimate situations as well. It is the way you treat your colleagues. It is the way you talk to other people when no one is around. And that is a character taken to the heart.
What Real Kindness Looks Like
It is not about being nice and therefore being perfect. It is all about doing your best and understanding when you fail. It is about doing things right in case you go wrong.
True kindness consists of consistency. You are so nice with the person who serves your coffee. You understand when someone has a bad day. You hear when one of your friends needs you. You are service without service.
These small daily gestures are more important than large-scale social gestures. They show who you really are. They establish confidence and sincere bonding.
Teaching the Next Generation
Kids learn from what they see. They see when grown-ups talk and act in a different manner. They are also observant of adults who confess and attempt to get better.
The Ellen case, in fact, teaches kids a major lesson. People are all guilty of mistakes, even celebrities. It is important to take responsibility for such mistakes and perform better later.
We are able to educate children that it is kind to be kind to everyone. Not only those that can assist you. Not only watching people. Everyone.
Choosing Kindness Every Day
Being kind one time is easy. It always requires actual effort to be nice. You must perform it on a daily basis particularly when life is tough.
That is why the reminder is important. Kind to each other is not a pleasant saying. It’s a daily challenge. It tells you to be nice when you are not in the mood.
Human beings must believe in your goodwill. When you treat people well when it is easy to do, then that does not feature highly. Stability creates character and gains respect.
The Choice Is Yours
Fame does not make kindness count. It begins with the people who are around you. Each encounter is an opportunity to be kind or be not so kind.
Consider the way you deal with the people in your life. Good-natured behind closed doors? Do you respect everybody, or only some people? Do you want to be able to confess your mistakes?
These are the questions which are important. These not only make kindness real and not merely performance.
Be kind to one another. Not only when somebody is observing. Not just when it’s easy. Always. And that is the true lesson to be learned.
Start today. Start now. And one sincere kindness at a time. That is the way we improve the world.
