Reach out with kindness

I was deeply saddened to hear about the bombing in Manchester, and my heart goes out to the victims and their families. During such a tragedy, it’s critical that we stand united and try not to let such acts of violence tarnish our faith in one another.

Starting today, I encourage all of you to think about ways you could be more kind and give back. Even if it’s a small act of compassion such as giving up your seat on the subway or donating needed goods to a shelter – now more than ever, it’s important we come together. Through these actions, we will remind each other that hatefulness does not have to exist and kindness will conquer all.

It’s up to us to create a future of tolerance and peace.

Martin Luther King Jr, who spent his life fighting against oppression and violence famously said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” He added, “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.”

While it’s easy to gravitate toward anger and hate for the evil forces in the world, try to stay focused on the good you can do instead. Not only will those negative feelings and actions bring you down personally, but they could also influence other people’s states of mind and perpetuate the harmful energy and activities that occur in the world. Be the force that stops the cycle of hate.

Likewise, Poet John Mark Green encouraged us to bring our best selves to confront the world’s problems collectively. “The world may bring deep darkness, but we are the bearers of light. We’ll join our flames together and shine in the blackest of nights.”

Rose Caiola
Inspired. Rewired.