The ills and evils of the world, sadly, are many — and can be completely overwhelming to contemplate . . . However, I believe that we are all connected, and the even the small, simple things we do can add up to bring about change. Treating each other with respect, making the effort to make connections with people, being kind — can add a richness to our daily interactions, and before you know it, it can even become a way of living.
The message of the holiday season, “Peace on Earth, goodwill to all”, can actually be something that we can bring about — in small ways, moment by moment. I believe it was Gandhi (or maybe it was Thoreau – both cool guys) who said, “Be the change you want to see in the world”, and it is a strong, powerful and simple call to action that I think about when — at times — it all seems too much.
So, have a cup of cheer and embrace the message of goodwill!
5 responses so far ↓
oldcrowfarm // December 30, 2007 at 1:37 pm
Great entry! If we all treated each other with kindness, stepped out of fussing about the trivial and filled our lives with fewer “things” and more reason…we could be that “change we want to see in the world”! : )
We feel so fortunate to live here in rural Vermont and have been greatly blessed by the affection both friends and strangers have given us! Our lives are peaceful and focused on the simple moments of kindness we are able to share with those around us.
May you and family have a Happy New Year! Sunnie : )
mountainheights // January 10, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Thanks Sunnie! I too feel blessed to have so many people in my life that I care about! HappY New Year and Best wishes! – Rob
davedixonvermont // January 15, 2008 at 6:22 am
Thank you, good vibes. We all have the ability to bitch and complain, and it is never all that productive. Whereas posititve thoughts and words may actually get somewhere. Your words can lead to productivity.
davedixonvermont // January 15, 2008 at 6:51 am
Treating people with respect. What a mouthful, and sadly what a hard concept for most to get their brains around. As a culture, we tend to give respect to those that have things, (the right car, the right house, the right phone, the right ipod). The means to the ends is not looked at hard enough. We are a society where the ends justify te means. The Junk APR mortgage trader who caused the bankruptcy of 25 families is in the “in”. The librarian or environmental scientist or census taker are in the “out”. We care so much more about retail values then values. So, us that care need to look out for one another. Tonight, I am starting a trend for myself, any change or ones that I have go into a pile. The next time someone needs something, they get that pile. We can all do a little, tiny bit, but many tiny bits can make massive impacts. LOVE_DAVE
Rob // January 17, 2008 at 2:14 am
Well said, Dave! Awesome idea! I love it!