Many of us are experiencing a sense of helplessness in light of the recent violence and current events.
Whether publicly or privately, we express sympathy for all who are impacted as we console and comfort ourselves in a variety of ways. While you may feel powerless to improve the world on a large scale, you can make a difference by taking a moment.
Be a voice for encouragement.
Embrace the opportunity to cultivate love and acceptance over fear and discord. Do your part to start a ripple effect of compassion. Seek out a cause close to your heart and invite friends and family to join in on their next volunteer opportunity. Stay open to meeting new people and learning new things as you share a worthwhile experience together.
Engage positively.
Establish eye contact with your local cashier and say “thank you” before grabbing your cup of coffee and racing off to work. Make room for another commuter to merge into your lane of traffic or wave at someone you pass on the street. Opt for a healing breath in rather than snapping or scowling at a minor irritation. Walk away from gossip and refuse to encourage uncivil behavior among your friends and family.
Go back to the classroom.
Whether you’re connecting face-to-face or commenting on social media, follow this classic bit of wisdom often used in the classroom. Ask yourself: Is this Thoughtful? Helpful? Important? Necessary? Kind? The last one — kindness — is the most essential of all.