The Grace & Courtesy Project

you found your very own Grace & Courtesy stone!

Inspired by the Kindness Rocks Project, our goal is to spread confidence, positivity, and empathy around our Ojai Community.

Hold the stone in your hands. Take a moment to read the painted message and take it to heart.

Someone created this stone for you to find.

The Importance of Grace & Courtesy

In a Montessori environment, grace and courtesy are more than just polite phrases. The two ideas are reliant on each other. Grace and courtesy refer to the acts that show respect for oneself, others, and the environment.

Grace is the manner in which we value ourselves. It is the spirit behind our actions. Grace refers to how one carries themselves with poise, elegance, thoughtfulness, and respect.

Courtesy is how one offers grace to other people. It is the kindness that shows consideration for others. Courtesy involves actions that come from the heart. Not empty politeness. We act in such a way because we recognize respect for others and our environment.

“We must respect the child’s personality and personal dignity, preparing them to live in a society that values kindness and empathy.”

— Maria Montessori

Pay It Forward . . .

If you are lucky enough to discover a grace and courtesy stone, we encourage you to re-hide the stone to pass on the message.

You may also keep your stone, but we recommend that you paint another one to take its place for someone else to find.

Hiding your grace & courtesy stone

Place your stone in locations where others will easily find it. Local parks, neighborhood gardens, beaches, or walking paths are all excellent options. Always follow “Leave No Trace” principles. Part of the purpose is to be respectful, so please be mindful of our environment.

MSO Community creations

Document your Discoveries

Create Your Own . . .

Find a smooth stone that is about 2 to 4 inches long. Be mindful not to take too many from nature, as it can disrupt the environment.
Rinse your stone(s) well and allow them to dry completely.
Grab a brush and non-toxic acrylic craft paint or paint pens. We recommend painting the whole stone with a base coat of paint. White works great if you want to include vibrant colors. Allow the base coat to dry.
While waiting for the base coat to dry, think of what your grace and courtesy message will be. Feel free to look up ideas online or create your own straight from the heart.
Have fun creating! Feel free to include drawings or other decorative elements along with your message.
When the paint is fully dry, topcoat your stone with a non-toxic clear sealant such as Mod Podge. This will protect the artwork from the elements and the paint from altering the environment.