Humanity has come a long way that’s for sure. Since the early 1800’s we have grown in population from 1 billion to now close to 8 billion people spanning 7 continents across our World.
Are we all equal? Do we all have the same economic, educational, social, religious, and other opportunities? Just a few minutes of watching your news channel will quickly answer that question!
As a child growing up, I wondered ever so often, ‘Why can’t we all just be one country and share everything?” It was such a simple way of viewing our World.
I talk to my parents, and they reminisce about the times when people truly cared for each other, when neighbors would give a bowl of food to another, when compassion, kindness, sharing, trusting, giving, were all honorable, wholesome virtues.
I can’t help but feel that we have deviated somewhat from these principles. Do we truly still have the capability to feel the hurt, pain and suffering of another human? Many times, it strikes me that folks are becoming de-sensitized. Everywhere we see wars, climatic disasters, mass shootings, injustice, death, and destruction, it can be overwhelming, and we want to tune it off – make it stop.
But, innately within the recesses of every single one of us, we feel deeply for our fellow man. Many times, I have this urgency to remind everyone I meet daily, that a little empathy can go for miles and miles; it’s contagious in a good way. A smile not only brightens your face but all the faces around you!
A kind word. Words of encouragement. Listening to those who need to be heard. Learning about each other. Understanding the point of view of others without losing yours. Helping at your local charity, food bank and community outreach programs. How about starting a community outreach with a few like-minded people? Reach out.
Be generous and give big or small to worthy causes. War torn countries. Those who have lost everything in disasters. Orphanages. Charities local and international. One dollar makes a difference in the lives of many. Be kind to animals, they too belong here with us.
Remember you are an integral part of humanity, you matter. Your words, your empathy and actions may very well be the catalyst to bring about much needed change for you, your community and for our World.