Did you know that according to the United States Census Bureau, the projected world population on January 1, 2024, was 8,019,876,189?
Isn’t that mind-boggling? With so many people in this big, beautiful world, what difference can little old me or you possibly make? It is so easy to become overwhelmed by the thought that we are only one in more than eight billion people. But guess what? We all have the potential to make a difference in the world in some way.
My husband and I recently went to see the movie “Ordinary Angels.”
It stars Hilary Swank as a hairdresser who drinks too much, is estranged from her son, and becomes an unlikely hero to a little girl who needs a liver transplant. It was so good, and based on a true story! I laughed and cried and couldn’t help but be curious. So I went home and Googled the real story, and learned about the ordinary woman, Sharon Stevens, who became extraordinary. Sharon brought a whole community together and was never afraid to ask for big things! One perfect example of one woman who made a difference in our world!
Throughout history, people have made an impact on our lives. Some people have discovered cures for diseases, some have created incredible works of art, some people invented things that have made our lives easier, some composed the music that speaks to our souls, some people have written books that changed the way we think, and some people made a difference with a little bit of kindness and a smile.
When did you last think about trying to make a difference in the world? When I think about making a difference, the first thought that comes to my mind is that I don’t have enough time. Most of us can relate to that! But don’t you ever wonder how some people find the time? Don’t we all have the same 24 hours a day to work with? That is undoubtedly true, but how other people contribute to the world doesn’t have anything to do with how we can make a difference. Have you ever heard the saying comparison is the thief of joy? Let’s stop comparing ourselves to what others have been doing and start thinking about what we can do. We can all make a difference in some way when we commit to doing so, and the best part is that there is always time to start!
So how do we start changing the world? I’ll give you a little hint. Begin with something you know you can do. Such as using reusable grocery bags, or donating things in your home that you no longer wear or use to a local charity. Give somebody a second chance. Smile at a stranger. Consider volunteering in your community. Hospitals, food banks, schools, animal shelters, parks and museums always seek volunteers.
Are you ready to dive a little deeper? Ask yourself what you are good at. What are you passionate about? Then consider sharing your talents and passions with other people! Do you ever watch “CBS Sunday Morning?” My husband and I love that show. In one episode, we discovered Thomas Dambo, a recycling sculptor and activist who builds gigantic trolls all over the world (including here in Florida) with scrap wood, and inspires people to recycle through his talents. He loved trolls, dumpster diving, and building things as a kid. As an adult, Thomas turns trash into treasures, and people love volunteering to help him. Thomas turned his love of trolls, building things, and trash into a worldwide phenomenon! Thomas Dambo is changing the world as only he knows how, and we can change the world in our own way, too!
Another option is asking yourself what matters to you. What do you want people to know? Many of us are students of pain. We’ve learned so much from our experiences. We all have a story worth sharing that can make a difference. Why not consider sharing your story with someone so they can learn from your mistakes without enduring the pain? You have all that knowledge right there in your head and heart. We all learn from others, and sharing what we’ve learned can make a difference in someone’s life!
There are countless ways to make a difference, my friend. Remember that we do not have to be a person of significant influence or wealth to make a difference. You matter. You are enough. Studies show that the quickest way to fill our lives with meaning and purpose is to help one another. When we align ourselves with our values and embrace a purposeful life, we can experience profound joy and deep satisfaction. We could all use a little bit of that!
Michellehays@monarchforlove.com
Michelle Hays is a heart-centered Marriage Coach and is the Monarch for Love Podcast Host with decades of experience in marriage and relationships. She has led hundreds of couples in their efforts to deepen their connection and increase fulfillment in their marriages. Michelle firmly believes that love is a decision and that positive thinking in marriage empowers couples to create the marriage and relationships they want and deserve. Michelle also enjoys her community on Instagram @monarchforlove. Please feel free to email her at Michellehays@monarchforlove.com with any questions or comments.
