Finding grace in our lives
KINDNESS CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON A GLOBAL SCALE
The world can seem like an overwhelming place at the moment. So much has changed over the last few months, it is easy to see why people are feeling helpless. Not only are we in the middle of a global pandemic, but we are also faced with the inequality that has been highlighted by recent events around race, education, health, wealth and opportunities. As individuals, it feels like we can make little difference.
However, there is a key theme that is coming to the surface. The world is gradually becoming aware of the power of the collective, and the virtues of kindness and good will – the very qualities that the word “grace” stands for.
From clapping for our key workers, helping our neighbours, to pushing for the rights of the vulnerable, we’ve started to wake up to the benefits of compassion, and coming together.
It takes a certain kind of event to alter our individual behaviours, to the point where even the smallest gestures stand for something significant. Getting down on one knee, dedicating certain shopping times to those in need, checking in on a neighbour, buying our coffee from a local independent. The message is clear – we are in this together. We care. We need to do better. We want to do better. And it starts with each one of us.
ACTION OF ONE
A few years ago I heard an incredible story. A man so full of despair had decided it was time to take his life. A passer-by stopped and talked him to safety with the words, “It’ll get better mate, you will get better”. On that particular day, his destiny was determined by that act of kindness, of good will and a stranger’s grace.
Never underestimate the impact that you, as one person, can have. From the way you smile at someone who is looking downcast on the street, letting someone go in front of you in a queue, or the way you spend your money. Everything we do has a ripple effect. We have more power than we realise, and our everyday acts resonate throughout the world.
Start with the thoughts you choose to identify with metaphorically, the ones which really light you up. Forgive yourself and others for things you need to let go of. Learn to receive and give in equal measure: compliments, support, love, generosity… all of it. Be patient with yourself and others when it comes to their mistakes. Make time for the things and people that bring you joy and happiness. Tell yourself, “I am deserving” as many times as you can each day.
VALUE YOUSELF
When you start learning to love and value yourself and others, your vibration shifts. You are more likely to smile at that stranger, want the same peace for others, and notice the person standing on the bridge. Our mood, our energetic frequency, our feelings don’t just affect us, they affect everyone around us… This is not about being perfect, it is about looking within.
Imagine if everyone spent their time learning to prioritise love, self-worth and other people? What if showing daily acts of kindness and compassion to others became the norm? This would then allow that ensuing feeling of sheer joy to ripple out into the world.
Because we are part of a whole. Every one of us contributes to the collective and every small gesture makes a difference. The way we treat ourselves and others in our immediate sphere has an influence.
Let’s make good will and kindness for all, at the centre of everything we do. Let’s own the immense power that we, as individuals, have in order to bring about a positive impact on those around us. Let’s champion the stories and actions of those who show these virtues on a daily basis. Let grace become the new role model.