PEBBLE
A big event can make it feel like the world is falling apart. But there are millions of tiny acts of kindness still holding it together.
-Twisted Doodles, shared by Nick in Indiana via The Ripples Convergence
BOULDER
People who really want to make a difference in the world usually do it, in one way or another. And I’ve noticed something about people who make a difference in the world: they hold the unshakable conviction that individuals are extremely important, that every life matters. They get excited over one smile. They are willing to feed one stomach, educate one mind, and treat one wound. They aren’t determined to revolutionize the world all at once; they’re satisfied with small changes. Over time, though, the small changes add up. Sometimes they even transform cities and nations, and yes, the world.
-Beth Clark, shared by Tracy in Minnesota via The Ripples Convergence
PONDER
I experienced a whopping case of writer’s block over the last few days, trying to assemble an upbeat, inspiring Ripples when each news cycle seems more dire than the previous round. I tried patiently waiting, I tried impatiently wringing my hands, I tried just about all the usual tricks that usually help the creative juices begin flowing.
Nothing was really working until I spied these relatively small and simple quotes, reminding me once again that it is the small and simple actions that can make such a big difference. They’re so effective in part because they are manageable even when our inspiration and energy are low, and also because they whisper hope when louder outbursts could be treated suspiciously.
I know we all want the world to get better, and we’ve been wondering when the right people are going to come along to help bring us together and begin restoring our dwindling reserves of peace and love and hope.
I keep forgetting: WE are the right people. We are the ones who believe in the ongoing impact of even the smallest of actions. We are the ones who stepped up after 9/11, during the 2008-09 economic downturn, and oh wowsa all the kindness and hope we spread during the Time of Covidia.
I know I’m still recovering from all of that, and I know many of you are, too. Still: more than ever, we need to muster the courage and the wisdom to recognize and seize opportunities for compassion, kindness, and generosity. These actions won’t just transform the people around us, they’ll strengthen and empower us, too.
I feel better just thinking about it and writing about it, and I’m ready for more action, too.
What about you?
Peace,
Paul
P.S. It’s just a coincidence that both of the quotes we featured this week were harvested from The Ripples Convergence, our official Facebook Group…maybe that’s a sign I’m supposed to invite you to join us there if you haven’t already?
