Making a small difference

As a girl I went through an exercise of realizing just how small I was in the grand scheme of things. I spent a few moments totally freaked out feeling that I was going to disappear from existence because I was so infinitesimally small. Although we are small, we can make a difference now in this world. Sometimes when we look at the huge ills that plague this world we have moments of "what's the point" and "what can little me do"?

We need to step away and realize that we are only ultimately responsible for our own lives and the lives of those closest to us. By living a life that is based on a strong virtue foundation, striving to make a difference each day, we can enrich the lives of those around us. This makes those around us happier and more content which in turn causes a small part of the world around us to be infected with our good influence.

The small ways in which I can make a difference are many and effect different spheres of influence.

Home: - do small maintenance and cleaning jobs to contribute to the upkeep of the home

- seasonal changes and organization

- maintain the household budget, banking, etc.

Family: - provide a secure nest to return to for holidays and special occasions

- making food from "scratch" to eliminate chemicals and additives

- be available for friends and family when they are in need

Studies: - eliminate time wasters to be able to read and study

- set up a study space so that it is easier to get the writing and studies done

In One Small Little Way...

Today is the first day of the rest of my life...

What will I do today that will make my family's life better, someone in my circle of friends better, someone in my city better, or even in the world better? I am going to start at the inner circle of my family which will in turn change the rest of the world in a small part. Like a pebble rippling out over water the small things that I do each day to make my family better start to effect the world around us. Home made food, reusing and recycling all happen because I am home to do the work that they take. My family is able to resist the pull of consumerism somewhat because I am able to take that extra time each day that mindfulness requires. Although we still have many areas where we can improve, we are making a difference. I am making a difference.