To one degree or another, everyone deserves mitigation. Whether or not it is deserved, everyone should be shown mercy. It's easy to say that we should dole out mercy and forgiveness to those who have obviously been wronged, but what about those people that have inflicted hurt. Why do they inflict that hurt? Mitigation. That's what it all comes down to. Like the middle school bully, we have to ask, why are they "acting out"? Are they feeling some pain or insecurity to want to burden another with something similar? It's not as simple as finding a so-called "root", but background should play a role in the way we treat others.
On the other side of the coin, the common phrase that is thrown at the working class and working poor is to "pull themselves up by their boot straps". Double down in work, work hard, and work well and you will be able to better yourself. The problem is for too many, there are no boots much less straps. You cannot climb a mountain unless you are thrown a rope. There are so many factors that lead to poverty and social inequality, but the lack of forgiveness and mitigation is a big one.
In all you do, lead a forgiving life. You don't have to go out and be a powerhouse of economic policy to help. You don't have to lie awake at night crushed by the surmounting weight of the problems your world faces.
Get out there, and do something. Anything.
1. Tip well.
The restaurant lobby is an incredible force against a higher federal minimum wage. If you feel that's an injustice, bless someone or perform a random act of kindness. Whatever the language or situation is, that extra money might not be much to do (or maybe it is), but to some, it's a piece of hope or at least a piece of rent that month.
2. Smile often.
Happiness is infectious. It sounds cliche, but some of the happiest people on Earth are the one's with the least material objects. Happiness and a whole heart aren't stability, but they are the blood vein of community and healthy interaction.
3. Volunteer.
Volunteering is great, y'all. Sort some cans, make a meal for a family in need, spend some time in a nursing home, lobby for human rights, find organizations, start organizations! Grab a friend, grab your mom, grab your dog, grab anyone, and go do some concrete good. It will not only benefit your world but also your heart. The more proximity you have, the more passion you will have.
4. Stay educated.
Read articles, read newspapers, listen to the radio, listen to people, and partake in your world. Much like the point about proximity earlier, you won't know where you can help until you know the issues.
5. Never stop improving.
Correct yourself and check your speech, actions, and emotions. Ask yourself why you feel sad or angry or guilty? Stay self-aware and allow yourself to notice and correct your misspeaks and missteps.
