I think we can all agree to the fact that he world needs some saving. There is war, poverty, environmental degradation, injustice, hatred, abuse, and a cornucopia of other things scattered all over this entire strange planet. Just like anything else, it is all not going to stop at the hands of one person or event. The mission to make this world a better place can be accomplished by individuals doing small things, creating an environment of love and respect, and basically “paying it forward”.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
— Margaret Mead
Changing the world doesn’t have to be entirely philanthropic.You will notice that as you develop a cause and start living life for others that something will change deep inside of you. By saving others you will save yourself . Promise.
Put your energy in the right place – We all know the feeling: you have a million things to do, your husband refuses to help around the house, you need more money, and nobody knows how to drive today!! When things start to get rough, take time out to breathe and reflect. Will the things that are bothering you today matter in 10 years? Do these problems affect anyone in the world but you? You will find that you waste a ton of energy worrying about things that don’t really matter. Find something you truly love and direct your attention there. Try to spend your time and energy solving problems for other people, and you will find that your problems magically disappear.
Spread the word – The world loves knowledge and nowadays it is all right at our fingertips. Help spread information you can stand behind. On Facebook or Twitter, link to a sale that your favorite ethical shoe store is having. Send out emails full of information about your favorite charity or organization. Give your best friend a list of compassionate cosmetic companies that she can use. Take your mom to your favorite vegan foodery. It doesn’t matter who you tell or how to get the message across. Just find things you love and want to support, and then spread the word!
Think deeply about each purchase – Buying stuff can prove to be a bit layered, ethically speaking. The list of things to consider when making a purchase, pretty much goes on for miles. The truth is, it is very hard to find any product that is local, organic, chemical free, vegan, sustainable and also manages to not be either $100 or look/taste like a burlap sack. There are a few questions I ask myself with every purchase I make, and I find that they help me make the best ethical decision I can without making my self dizzy with confusion.
- Do I absolutely need this? Notice that sentence does not include the word WANT. Remember that everything you buy requires materials, energy and labor to create it. Don’t waste all of those things so you can have something you will never use.
- Were any animals exploited or harmed to make this? No animal ingredients or testing. If the answer is no, its fair game.
- Were any people exploited or harmed to make this? This can get complicated because the details of certain foreign farm and factory policies are incredibly shady. I try my best to buy local and/or handmade.
- Can I make this? I absolutely refuse to buy anything I can easily make myself. If you really want it and can make it for yourself, then you can find the time and resources to do so! This logic has slowly helped me become more self sustained.
Love yourself – Don’t spend the day picking out your flaws and stating the things you want to improve in your life! Love who you are and what you’ve got. It is said that everyone you know is a reflection of yourself. When you love yourself, you will love everyone in turn. How beautiful and peaceful!
Relax and smile – Don’t fret the little things. If someone pissed you off, forgive and forget. Life is short, enjoy it and don’t be bogged down by needless worry. It is amazing how much the smile and laid-back attitude of a stranger can make your day infinitely better. Return anger and disrespect with love and kindness. Change the world with every single person you encounter throughout your day.
*beauuutiful photo by yinG ♥ 93
These are wonderful ideas 🙂