Hate. Fear. Distress. Confusion. Sorrow. Pain. Heartache. Torment. Agony. War. Battles. Desolation. Terror.

Such intense suffering bleeds through our world every day - war, poverty, utter hatred of others, innocent lives threatened and lost, change, struggle, loss. It’s inevitable. We can hide from it, we can block it from view; but for me, at least, there's always that sense of helplessness when I hear of a violent hate crime, a devastating natural disaster, or the war and torment going on in other countries that I’m not even aware of.

That’s not a bad thing. Helplessness - that pang in your heart, drop of your stomach, feelings of pain, confusion, a longing to do something, anything. It’s because as humans, empathy is natural. Feeling in tune with that sense of empathy is exhausting at points, but ever so rewarding in every sense…

Except for the helplessness though, right?

Well, yes - but that same sense of empathy can lead you to a greater sense of purpose in these times of duress. Whether it be in your own life, or for others - feeling this sense of helplessness is only something that you need to acknowledge as a spark to the flame. I want you to think about every single human being in history that is known for helping others, for changing the world as we know it. Almost every single one of those people started small. They started local, finding small things they could do in their everyday routine to better themselves, those around them, and those after them.

Let’s put it into perspective. Say every single person on this earth were to say, do, or create one kind thing, moment, or acknowledgement for someone else, every day. Only one thing per person - it could change the world. How do these acts of kindness start? With something to inspire the kindness...that something could be you.

You have the ability to use what you have to help - whether it just be your smile, holding the door open for someone, looking out for those in need or distress, volunteering at local shelters, protesting or rallying for those in need of help. Sometimes, you’ll be the one in need of help, and you’ll be the one bogged down. At that point, it is okay to take care of yourself. It’s okay to ask for help. You’re human, and your potential to change the world is still just as high as anyone else - it’s all about how you use it.

So, I’m challenging you to find everyday actions that can help yourself and others find a true, loving, home in this world - in themselves. I’m challenging you to kill that helplessness and fear with kindness. Love. Belonging. Acknowledgment. Friendship. Care. Concern. Gentle awakening. Simple Activism. Bold activism. Heart. Drive. Courage. Generosity. Fellowship. Wonder. Charity.