Simple Steps to Make a Difference During the Pandemic

Today I was reminded just how easy it is to make a difference. We are all getting through these days of social distancing, missing our friends and family and not being able to socialize in the way we have become accustomed throughout the years. As some states begin to open up slowly, others (like Texas) are experiencing an upsurge of the virus. We need to remember this is a process and vigilance is the key.

But how we get through it is up to us. I was contacted this morning by a friend who lives out of town, who asked me a simple favor. It brought me to tears as I realized it was so easy to help someone with such a simple task that meant so much them. “Can you please pick up and deliver a cabbage to my mom the next time you make a curbside order, or go to the grocery store?” My friend’s mom lives alone, isn’t comfortable with technology and needs a little help. How many of us can do something, anything, for someone else but don’t realize there is a need?

You Need to Ask

Don’t hesitate to put the word out that you are willing and available to help. Even someone with the most hectic schedule has room for a small act of kindness. Reach out and inquire, “what can I do for you or your family?” It could be as easy as picking up an onion the next time you shop or bringing in the trash receptacles for an elder once or twice a week. Maybe even blowing leaves off the front porch of a neighbor or picking up medication for someone who can’t get out to drive because they are feeling ill.

Support Small Business

You can make a difference and get what you need at the same time. Ordering curbside or buying local is an immense kindness during times when small businesses in your community are struggling. You may not know the owner but doing something for someone else without any expectations of a return on your investment is the right thing to do when you have the need and resources.

Don’t Overlook Your Own Family

You may be living under the same roof with someone who is lonely. We get so caught up in our own world that we often overlook those who need some attention right in front of us. There are a few things you can do to make a difference in their world. You can make them a favorite treat or a cup of tea. Or you can watch a movie together or give them a few minutes each day of undivided time. Let those you live with know how much you love and appreciate them.  

Say a Quiet Prayer

Every kindness doesn’t have to be witnessed by others. Your generosity of spirit can be private and heartfelt through your personal commitment to keep others in your prayers and intentions. There is research that says when we practice a faith, any kind of religious belief, it benefits our health. Prayer is good for you. 

Be Kind to a Stranger

As we take care of ourselves and our family, show support to someone who least expects it. Hand a mask to someone in need. Offer someone walking a cold can of soda (easier to see that it has not been opened). Make eye contact with the bus driver. Thank the police officer, security guard, delivery driver, or anyone else passing through. Leave a note to your mail carrier. Let someone get in front of you in line at the grocery store. Write a positive review for a local business, pay for food in the car behind you in the drive-through or give an extra tip to a delivery driver.  Make it a daily goal to impact someone in a positive way.

You might also like Face Mask Etiquette in the Age of COVID-19. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.

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