Once again it snowed last night. And once again I am reminded of the symbolic cleansing a fresh batch of snow conveys upon one’s psyche. The ground is completely pure without blemish and full of potential. Once those first tracks are laid upon its surface, the die has been cast and there is no going back - it is changed forever.Our personal interactions have the exact same effect upon the earth. Each day begins rife with potential - both good or bad. How we engage our fellow man, even at the most mundane levels, has a profound effect on the planet as a whole. If a butterfly flapping it’s wings off the coast of Africa can spark a hurricane in the Caribbean, imagine what awesome potential a single mindful action initiates.
There is a worldwide movement that touts the value of kindness. Imagine a world where every citizen makes it their habit to perform an act of kindness every day. Why only a single act of kindness, why not a dozen every day?
There is young man from southern California who is trying to make a difference by logging one million acts of kindness by his country’s youth (http://www.onemillionaok.com). Despite having extremely limited financial resources, Brian Williams is indeed making a huge difference in our world. What I really like about Brian, and where I believe many of my students can learn from him, is that he holds himself 100% accountable for achieving his goals. He only sees challenges in front of him, not obstacles. I am so impressed with his drive and determination that despite never having personally met him, this week we shipped out our school’s digital video camera to Brian so that he can document his project with a video diary. Our hope is that this chronicle may inspire others to eliminate their indifference and step up and become accountable for global change.
An ambitious benevolent project initiated by an individual in one country supported by the mindful action of a group in another country - suddenly the prospect of being able to make a difference doesn’t seem so intimidating.
"Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for a kindness."
- Seneca (4BC - 65AD)
1 comment:
With the continued growth of our "interconnectedness" the world is only a fingertip or hours away. Things that seemed imposible in the past are now possible. Everything we do effects someone somewhere and no matter how big or small you are you can make a difference. Remember, even the smallest pebble makes ripples.
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