If I change my perspective just a little from that great, big world to MY world, I find some hope. My world is really very limited - it's the people and things within my reach at any given moment.... wherever I am.... whatever I'm doing.
There's another change in perspective that gives me even more hope. It's not my job to fix every person and situation that crosses my path. Instead, I try to focus on leaving things better than I found them. As special as I'd like to think I am, God didn't make me the complete solution to every problem. Shocking.
There is one more important idea that I need to carry with me everywhere I go: most people are just like me - a little weighed down by what it takes to make it from one day to the next.... skinned knees and bruises in a broken world. When I let this thought borough into my heart, it's a game changer.
So what?
When I start each day, I ask God to find ways to use me. I ask Him to give me the wisdom to see those opportunities. I ask Him for the strength and courage to dive in and be used. It can be a scary prayer. But it's less scary when I remember:
My world is pretty small
I only have to leave things better than I found them
Each person needs a spoonful of kindness
When I start the day with these things in my pocket, it's remarkable how many opportunities start popping up. What's even more remarkable is how less daunting it is to take a step toward situations I would have just passed by.
Pay for the person behind you at Starbucks - and ask the cashier to tell them "I hope this lifts your day a little".
Let the cashier know that you appreciate their work... smile and laugh a little.
Make dinner (or takeout) for a family member or neighbor - especially when you know they could use a break.
Call (or send a card) a friend or loved one to let them know they aren't forgotten.
Meet a friend for conversation.
Honestly, it takes so very little to shine wherever you are. It's not the grand, look at me gestures - it's the little things. Let God nudge you. What you'll discover is that if you start with small steps, soon you'll be running.
I'm letting Him nudge me - every day. I'm thinking about being kind on purpose.... and hoping that when God needs me, I'll be there.
