How do we change the world? One random act of kindness at a time.
~ Morgan Freeman
This week I witnessed an irate driver overreact to driver error. It would have been easy to judge him as hostile, but I had just heard a podcast on insomnia that helped me to reframe.
The sleep expert mentioned that sleep-deprived people react with excessive anger to even minor grievances. Because I had been primed to have compassion my perception changed. Discernment rather than judgment became possible in that instant.
Every action triggers a reaction
We don’t see things as they are. We see them as we are.
~ Anonymous
Between stimulus and response, there is a space. How we show up in that space has a lot to do with our state of being. Exposing ourselves to content that inspires gratitude and mindfulness helps improve response.
Looking for what is right in our lives increases the likelihood that we will react more thoughtfully when triggered.
Today let us be the change we want to see in the world.
Every cause has an effect
A random act of kindness is contagious. It can trigger a generosity epidemic.
Do something kind when the opportunity arises. It need not be complicated.
Send wishes of safety to a driver that cut you off
Ask a less mobile neighbour if there is anything you can get them at the store
Call an isolated elderly person
Give something to a homeless person; even just a kind word
Lighten the burden of someone’s workload
Compliment with sincerity
Forgive those who have hurt you
Express genuine gratitude for services received
Support peace efforts
Closing thoughts
We are overwhelmed with thoughts about health policy, climate change, geopolitical concerns, energy, financial and food insecurity. Some people may not have the capacity to handle even minor inconveniences right now.
During a crisis, we need to unite to help those in need. Random acts of kindness have a ripple effect.
We can change the world one random act of kindness at a time.
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