William James once said, "Act as if what you do makes a difference." This may seem obvious and redundant. This bit of advice might be something you've heard before -- we've all been told to consider the consequences of our actions and to think before we act. It makes sense to execute each action with the knowledge that it could possibly affect the lives of others. However, this quote by William James challenges us a step further by finishing simply, "it does."
He recognizes that with each word we speak and each step we take, we are changing something or someone. It's not a question of whether or not you will influence others -- it's a question of how.
We've all dreamed of growing up, growing old and being able to look back on our lives and say that we changed the world. Maybe it's time to start realizing that we've already done that. You don't have to grow old before you realize how much you influence the people around you.
When Forrest Gump ran across the United States, he didn't do it to be a leader. He did it because he "felt like running" and other people joined in.
When Miley Cyrus shaved her head and went a little crazy, she didn't do it to start a movement. She shaved her head because she wanted to shave her head. Her intention wasn't purely influence but she influenced others anyway.
When you were a freshman in high school, the seniors probably weren't doing the things they did to teach you or lead you or show you the ropes. But they did.
When you were little and you waved at a passing bus or train that was speeding along, you didn't really expect anyone to see you and wave back. But they did see you. I've been on trains since then, and I've seen eight-year old boys helping their little sisters wave to the passing car. I want to let them know that I saw them and that they made a difference.
When you're sober at a party, someone will notice, and think "I wonder if that's a good idea."
When you're drunk at a party, someone will notice, and think "I wonder if that's a good idea."
When you pray, others pray with you.
When you smile at someone, they're probably going to smile back.
To the person who spit their gum out on the sidewalk: I stepped in it.
To the person who spilled their drink on the table at work: I cleaned it up.
To the person who carved their initials in a tree in a park: I saw it, and it made me want to do the same thing.
And to the person who "payed it forward" in the drive-thru: that was my meal you paid for. Thank you.
There are no shouts in the dark, a tree does make a sound when it falls in an empty forest.
Actions have repercussions and it's up to you to decide what those are. The choices that hurt you hurt other people too. When you celebrate, there are a million others who are affected by the joy in your celebration.
