It’s the start of a new year. Many of us are making New Year’s resolutions. We think about the things we want to do better in the year to come.

Resolve to Be Kinder

In a new video, James talks about some of the typical resolutions we make.

James then challenges us to resolve to be kinder in 2026. Being kinder can change how people feel, how they are treated, and how safe they feel in the world. Watch the full video on our YouTube channel.

When Kindness Is Missing

James recently was talking to someone at his self-advocacy group. He was sharing his pride about some great work he has done this year. Another person jumped into the conversation and said hurtful things. They claimed James was not really working and did not deserve his job. That was not true.

Hearing those words hurt James deeply. This moment shows how quickly people can judge others without knowing the facts. A little kindness could have made a big difference. That’s why James is asking us all to be a little kinder.

Everyone Has Gifts

In the last part of the video, James shares that no one is better than anyone else. Everyone has gifts and talents. We should notice those gifts instead of putting people down. That lesson still matters today. People with IDD have skills, talents, and strengths. When we are kind, we make room for those strengths to shine.

What Being Kinder Can Look Like

Being kinder does not have to be hard. It can simply mean:

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If you’re resolving to be kinder or setting a different goal, we can help. 

When we choose kindness, we help make the world safer and more welcoming for everyone. This year, let’s make kindness part of our goals.