It's Easy To Be Kind
by Mike Wilson
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle" - wise words from a philosopher who truly understood the human condition. In our "me" society, it is good to take the opportunity as often as we can to encourage our kids to speak to one another kindly, considering feelings and possible struggles each one faces, before speaking in anger or in haste.
This song is arranged around a folk rock feel. It starts with an acoustic rhythm section that builds dynamically with each verse, adding electric guitar and a synth accordion along the way. Though fairly easy to learn, the melody might be best suited for your older students, though you should be the judge. A pop vocal approach sounds natural for the style. Feel free to refer to our session vocals for stylization ideas.
If class time allows, you can discuss the lessons of the song's subject. What did Plato mean about everyone fighting a hard battle? What are some consequences of hurtful speech or speaking without thinking first? Who knows where the discussion may lead.
Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.