Making A Difference

Just like the character Katniss Everdeen, she had no idea that her volunteer started a revolution or a change in society.

Though this character is just fictional from the very famous series, The Hunger Games, it is something that we can all reflect upon. In today's reality, there are many people who are hungry, homeless, or even just short on luck. In some ways, they need help. We all do.

Volunteer work may not be as beneficial as earning and working in an actual job; however, it is just as fulfilling if one has the passion to help other beings. It can be a small act of kindness like opening a door for someone to as big as volunteering as tribute to play in the Hunger Games (just kidding!). It all starts somewhere.

Some may deny it but we all loved to be helped. We like the fact that someone would go ahead and help us when we need it the most or when it is just a spontaneous gesture. It is still welcomed. However, do we return the favor to others?

This thought occurred to me while I was looking through my old yearbook. The previous yearbook before my senior year, I realized how much volunteer work I contributed during the year compared to  my senior year. With every opportunity, I get a hold of the head of the committee to help prep for a blood drive or get can goods for a certain event, etc. It always brought me joy that I can help someone with just a small act of kindness. Nowadays it's just so difficult to find.

My thoughts and suggestions for spreading a little kindness in the world would be the following:

• Volunteer in a Charity. Though it may not be money involved on your end, the smiles it brings to others by giving them hope and following the mission of what the certain charities act upon should be rewarding enough. Usually in these events, one would provide information on what the charity is all about. There is so much to learn as well as to teach.
• Donating. When we hear donations, we usually think of money. That's not always the case. Donations could be as simple as giving away blankets or old but reusable clothes to the shelters that accept donations. Donating food is a good alternative if one can't provide spare money to give out.
• Create Your OWN charity/fundraiser. Recently, I began doing this. I thought, since there are so many organizations, it's so hard to choose where you want to place yourself. Think of a good cause and begin setting up your reasons why you want to help this certain cause, where everything goes, and how everything works. Creating your own charity or fundraiser is a good way to volunteer in your own community. Sometimes we have to be the starter to make a difference.
• Be a Supportive Peer. When we can't volunteer in certain events or bigger causes, we can always be a supportive peer to someone. This idea is all about helping your friend overcome a fear, be a listening ear, give advice, etc. Even that can go a long way in making a difference in the world.

 I believe there are so much more ideas and proposals that can go into making a change. It always starts with one person.

Why not it be you?

Just be strong with what you stand for and keep on fighting for it. Sooner or later, your little act becomes a big turn in the world.

Who knows? Maybe one day, you might need the help.