4 Ways to Mend the World

"Ours is not the task of fixing the entire world at once, but of stretching out to mend the part of the world that is within our reach." -Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés

In this age of instant communication, with news coming from all parts of the globe at once, it's easy to feel overwhelmed with all that needs "fixing." 

I know people who feel paralyzed with sadness and worry over the state of the world. They have huge hearts and want to help in some way but don't know where to begin.

So how can we break out of the paralysis and make an impact for good? We can begin by starting small. 

Here are a few suggestions:

• In this first week of Lent, people all over the world are fasting from one thing or another. Try taking a news fast. Take your eyes off what's going on "out there" and focus your attention "in here" (within yourself). You cannot help anyone else if you are sick with worry and fear.
• Tend to the needs of those within your own home. If you live alone, create a beautiful environment for yourself and be sure you are nurturing yourself with good food, exercise and restful sleep.
• Reach out to friends and extended family who need your love and encouragement. 
• Get to know your neighbors.

Now I can almost hear some of you saying, "But I want to do something really meaningful! I want to make a bigger impact!"

But think about it... If everyone in the world did just these few things I have suggested, what kind of world would we have? 

If you think this is too easy, try it and see. It may be a lot harder than you think.

"Love your neighbor as yourself." -Jesus