One thing you will never regret is being kind. This quote has been a guiding principle in my life, especially during difficult times.

With that quote in mind, I will never forget an act of kindness from executive headteacher Roger Farley.

WARNING!

It’s not my intention to trigger anyone with this #edukindnessblog.

Do you ever have those points in your life or career where everything is going well? I was in this phase of my life. My ‘Kindness Matters’ book, a collection of personal stories and practical advice on kindness, was selling like hotcakes. This book, which shares personal experiences and offers practical tips on how to incorporate kindness into your daily life, was resonating with readers. Schools from around the UK were buying my ‘Kindness Matters’ online courses, which are designed to promote kindness and empathy in the classroom through interactive modules and real-life examples, and I was fully booked for over 18 months with speaking engagements.

Life, being life, is it not astonishing how it can transform in the blink of an eye, catching us off guard with its sudden shifts?

I got a call from my aunt saying that my Mum had a lump in her neck, and my aunt was very concerned that it could be cancer.

I took my Mum to the hospital to receive the sad news that my Mum had terminal cancer… I was devastated, my Mum was speechless, and our whole world had been turned upside down.

Despite my best efforts to maintain a positive outlook, fear gripped me for Mum, my kids, and my entire family.

I did my best to be professional and show up at work, visiting my schools predominantly in East Lancashire.

I wanted as much time as I could have with Mum, and Mum kept saying get yourself to work the hospice at home staff and nurses are here.

I felt so guilty, but I was also frightened that my schools might cancel the contract they gave to my organisation. Kindness matters.

I will never forget the day I was at Unity Academy, and I bumped into my good friend and then headteacher, Roger Farley. I couldn’t keep it in. I got upset and told Roger the news, saying I felt guilty about leaving Mum, but I had to honour my work contract; I couldn’t finish my sentence. Roger said listen, John, you get yourself home with your Mum and spend whatever precious time you have with her, and I will spread the word, and I encourage you to let all your schools know.

I kid you not. It was like a massive weight on my shoulders had been lifted.

Roger’s kindness was not just a gesture, it was a lifeline that I clung to in my darkest hour. His support not only allowed me to spend precious time with my Mum but also reassured me that my professional commitments would be honored. This experience taught me the true value of kindness and the impact it can have on someone’s life.

I did what Roger said and was genuinely touched by the support I received from all my schools. This would not have happened without Roger’s help.

Sadly, Mum died and made her transition, and I was grateful I spent as much time as I could with her.

I wrote Taking Her to The Door, a book journalling how I took care of my Mum and all proceeds go to the hospice. And I encourage you to get a copy if you know anyone who has lost a loved one.

Reflecting on Roger’s kindness and all the kindness I received during this difficult time of my life reminds me that… One thing you will never regret is being kind.

Conclusion:

In the end, this blog is a heartfelt reminder that kindness isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a powerful force that can change lives. Whether it’s in moments of joy or deep sorrow, kindness connects us, lifts burdens, and reminds us we’re not alone. Through Roger Farley’s compassion and the unwavering support from schools and colleagues, I experienced firsthand how even a single act of kindness can ripple out and create lasting impact. So, if there’s one message to take away from my story, it’s this: kindness matters more than we’ll ever know—and it’s something you’ll never, ever regret.

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Thank you for your kindness

Your Kindness Coach

John