Kindness on wheels: Lessons from a Little Blue Truck

Any parent knows that they are going to read a handful of books 459 times in a given week depending on what their little one is into. It can be incredibly mind-numbing and hilarious when you find yourself reciting the books in your sleep. Our current favorite is “Little Blue Truck.” Thank goodness my kiddo is into such a cute story because I actually really love it a lot. And it got me thinking about the life messages it can pass along.

For those not familiar, here’s a short version: “Little Blue Truck” is a story about a friendly truck named Blue who says hi to everyone he passes as he drives around the farm. A Dump Truck comes barging through complaining about being too busy to say hello to everyone because he’s “got big important things to do.” When he gets stuck in the mud and needs help, no one comes except for Blue. He, of course, gets stuck too, but when he “Beeps” for help, the whole barnyard shows up to get them both out of the mud. The Dump Truck then realizes that he should be nicer and that “a lot depends on a helping hand from a few good friends.

In a world where everyone seems to be rushing, “Little Blue Truck” gently reminds us to slow down and connect. Whether it’s a friendly honk or a simple wave, these small acts of kindness create a ripple effect that can lift someone out of their metaphorical mud. The story is a delightful blend of humor and wisdom, making it a staple in our bedtime routine.

Plus, let’s face it: as much as we want to be that Little Blue Truck all the time, there are days when we feel like the grumpy Dump Truck—overwhelmed, isolated, and stuck in a rut. The beauty of the story is that it shows us how quickly our fortunes can change with a little help from our friends. It’s a reassuring reminder that it’s okay to ask for help and that community is built one friendly beep (so to speak) at a time.

So, the next time you’re about to rush past someone or feel too busy to say a kind word, channel your inner Little Blue Truck. Beep, wave, smile—whatever it takes. After all,

“A lot depends on a helping hand from a few good friends.”

~Dump Truck

Do what makes you happy.