In Defense of the Karens
by Karen Makishima, Director of Children and Family Life Ministry
Karens are getting such a bad rap nowadays. Just google “Karens being Karens” and you will get a picture of a middle-aged women named Karen who is rude and acts entitled. I bet no parent is ever again going to name their baby Karen. Before you know it, the name Karen will be extinct! I am so glad that my oldest granddaughter has Karen in Hawaiian, Kalena, as her middle name. Otherwise, she would be hit with the stigma of having Karen as her name too.
I am on a mission to change the stigma. I am calling all women named Karen to join me. Instead of being known as the one of privilege and the one with a critical spirit, I want to be known as Karen with the superpower of kindness. Kindness seems like such a simple thing, but it’s a virtue that can make a huge difference. Kindness can ultimately change a culture.
God’s chosen people throughout the Bible have shown kindness to others. As one of His chosen, we too are called to show kindness.
Colossians 3:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control.”
Here is the kindness plan I’m hoping to implement:
First, start with being kind to yourself, as Chris Pan encouraged us to do in his Feb 28th sermon. When we are kind to ourselves, we can be kind toward others.
Next, choose to be others-focused by taking time to listen; pivot by turning your eyes from your phone, iPad or computer when someone interrupts you and be genuinely interested by looking at them. Know that kindness can change any relationship. Try the pivot challenge!
Be intentional by choosing three people each day to either write a note, send a text or email to share kind, encouraging words.
Do you want to change the world? If so, show kindness to yourself and others.
Come on, Karens of the world. Let’s change the stigma. I want one of my grandchildren someday to name one of their kids Karen, a name that actually means “pure.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to show Your love by being kind to ourselves and to others. Amen
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