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 happiness changed from a euphoric rush to devastation in an instant. All I could think was about having to 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 by 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. I spoke to many people who said, “I feel helpless; there is nothing I can do.” Trust there is always something we can do. 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, I could make a difference and I did. Together we raised more than $100 dollars. While $100 may not seem like a lot of money to some, to the people who lost everything, it meant everything.
Over the past few years, it seems more natural disasters, shootings and political upheaval have taken place. It can be easy to get caught up in the drama of life’s circumstances, but you don’t have to fall victim to the situations, I have managed to maintain a centered calm and inner happiness and I do this by helping. I believe part of our frustration and inner turmoil is because we fell helpless. Consider that there is always something you can do. There is always something you can do, and it starts with asking yourself how you can help.
When we serve others we recognize that we are part of a greater plan. Every single thing you do affects another person. We are all one. Sometimes it takes world tragedies to bring us together. Instead of looking at the world as a negative dark place, you can step into the light by responding with love, compassion and hope.
Sometimes the little things are all that matter. The little things we do for another person are often bigger and better than the things we do on a grand scale. Here are easy things you can do to make a big difference.
• Opening a door for a stranger
• Buy your friend lunch unexpectedly
• Taking out the garbage when your significant other is tired from the day.
• Buy Coffee for a stranger in line
• Tell your boss, dentist, doctor that you are thankful for them
Truth be told your boss and health care professionals don’t hear thank you often. Dr. Derek Conklin, a dentist in Portland OR, said he is thrilled when his patients tell him thank you. “It makes my day.” Bing thankful and sharing your gratitude will help improve your happiness.
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