A lot of people this week are mourning, and with good reason. The tragedies that have occurred in this past week alone are enough to make anyone question the direction our world is moving in. Unfortunately it seems like lately every week has brought about a new tragedy, and it is hard not to be discouraged, get angry or sad, and feel the need to blame someone. However, an image I came across while scrolling through Instagram this morning really resonated with me. It was a saying transposed on a French flag that Anne Hathaway had posted in response to the horrific attack in Nice, and it said, “I want to hate him, but if I do, I create him.” While it is such a simple phrase it provides a powerful message about the cycle of violence and injustice in our world. It is with this in mind that I would like to offer simple ways you can try and brighten the world a bit
Pay it forward
This ones simple: if someone does something nice for you, spread the love and do something nice for another person. What is this nice thing you should do for someone, you ask? Get creative, it doesn’t have to be a big gesture, just something that makes someone’s day a little better.
Do a random act of kindness
Along those same lines, it never hurts to brighten a stranger’s day. Whether it’s paying for the person-behind-you-in-line’s coffee or leaving a friendly note or words of encouragement in library book for someone to find, sometimes these simple acts are enough to raise people’s faith in humanity.
Adopt a pet
Everyone needs a little love these days, and what better way to secure unyielding love than adopting a pet. They get a new home and a fresh start and you get a loyal companion that loves you no matter what – that, my friends, is what we call a win-win.
Keep in touch with family and friends
Sometimes life gets the better of us and we don’t get in touch with loved ones as much as we should. Although it seems inconsequential, just hearing from a friend or family member and knowing you are being thought of is enough to make someone’s day.
Be philanthropic
Whether you volunteering, donating, or simply doing what you can to help this world, be that planting a tree or helping someone carry their groceries, being philanthropic is a great way to help not only your local community but the national and global population as well.
Pray
I understand not everyone believes in a God, but if you do, praying is never a bad idea. You don’t understand how much a prayer can mean to someone who’s suffering.
See the best in people
Sure, it’s hard to be non-judgmental and not assume the worst in people sometimes, but we have to try. You may think that person cut you off on the way to work because they are a jerk or a crazy driver, but maybe they are actually rushing to meet a loved one in the hospital or to make a job interview when they’ve been down on their luck. It’s best always to consider what others could be going through before jumping to conclusions.
Be positive
There’s no denying that the state of the world can be discouraging, but we can’t let it consume our whole lives. The only thing we can do is be the best version of ourselves we can be, and hope the rest of the world follows suit. So above all, try and stay positive and keep hope- we can get through this.
