On March 11, 2011, I woke up excited because it was my birthday. I welcomed in the beautiful, fresh, new day. The TV was on, and as I walked downstairs I saw that a giant tsunami had hit the coast of Japan and wiped
out cities and towns, leaving thousands missing.
My birthday bliss changed from an euphoric rush to devastation in an instant. All I could think was how could I help? I listened to the strained screams of victims; I saw dogs drowning and homes turned upside down. Suddenly my having a day all about me because it was my birthday became unimportant.
Many people experienced the same horror in watching the events unfold on television and also felt helpless. The situation seemed so far removed from us in our cozy homes in America that many felt numb to the tragedy. With the recent natural disasters, the emotions have resurfaced.
I speak to many people who say, “I feel helpless; there is nothing I can do.” What I learned is we can trust that there is always something we can do. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I started to reflect on how abundant I feel, and it all starts with giving thanks. If you feel overwhelmed by life tragedies, you are not alone. I spoke to Dr. Castilla my friend and smile expert, and she reminded me that gratitude is the fastest way to feel better.
These tips can help.
Take One Step
Sometimes we become paralyzed by the catastrophic events, but just taking one step will help. In 2011, I recognized that I could make a difference, so I started a fundraising campaign to help raise money to help the victims. I went to Mercy Corps and created my own fundraising page. I asked people to donate to my campaign rather than buying me birthday presents. I took action and did something. Even though my efforts were small, we could make a difference and we did. It wasn’t about the money, or even about the giving. For me it was about coming together. There is always something you can do and it starts with asking yourself, “How can I help?” Being of service to others is one of the highest acts of kindness. When we serve others we recognize that we are part of a greater plan.
Everything is Connected Every single thing you do affects another person. We are all one. Sometimes it takes world tragedies to bring us together. To see another person connected to you is an easy way to offer help. We all want love; we all want to make a difference and feel connected to life. Instead of looking at the horror and devastation, we can see the love of people coming together.
We need each other to get to where we want to go. So when you think about your goals and your personal dreams, recognize that they are not just for yourself, but also for the world, taking care of yourself is also important for a healthy outlook on life. If you want to take your gratified practice to new levels, and really celebrate thanksgiving, create a giving list, or giving jar. Write out creative ways to give and use the list of ideas to guide you. (My list looked something like this.)
15 Ways to Make an Extraordinary Difference in the World
1. Forgive your ex-lovers
2. Volunteer at an animal shelter, senior citizen home or food bank
3. Call your mother and offer to help her with house hold chores
4. Speak kindly to yourself
5. Open the door for a stranger
6. Buy coffee for the person behind you in line
7. Be present with your children
8. Take care of your body
9. Be honest
10. Help a friend move
11. Smile at people who make you uncomfortable
12. Sit with your grandparents and listen to their stories
13. Get in touch with your inner child
14. Respect everyone
15. Adopt a furry friend
