One of my favorite quotes of all time is attributed to Mother Teresa; “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” Throughout 2016, I fear that many people have forgotten that we belong to each other. I really believe that in 2017, we all can remind each other. Here are some little ways that show how.
1. Do some small acts of kindness.
You can do this in a bunch of ways! Try to let someone in front of you in the starbucks line that looks like they’re in a rush. Pay it forward for someone’s order. Buy the homeless person a hot meal. Hold the door open for the person behind you! There are a lot of ways to brighten people’s days.
2. Compliment someone you don’t normally compliment.
Complimenting people is a great way to make someone’s day brighter! It doesn’t have to be anything big, just a simple, “I like your hair,” or a compliment on their outfit that day can make someone’s day entirely better and to boost someone’s confidence.
3. Donate to charity.
Maybe skip your daily cup of coffee and, instead of spending that $4.25 on yourself, give it to people in need! Or even spend an extra $4.25 to get a cup of coffee for someone who can’t afford it.
4. Buy your friend dinner or a cup of coffee.
Splurge on your friends every once in a while to show them how much you appreciate them! If you can’t afford it, do something simple, like sending them a letter, or leave a little note just saying that you’ve been thinking of them!
5. Volunteer
If you have some extra time on your hands, you could volunteer at any organization that might need it. It doesn’t matter how much or how little time you have, people could always use your help! Try to find an organization you’re passionate about, whether it’s your local animal shelter or working at the library, and just spend your time making the world a bit of a better place!
The world may have seemed to fall into a pattern of negativity and hatred, but we don’t have to follow that! Remember that we all belong to each other, and work to make the world a better place.