By Linda Commito
There are so many ways that we can make a positive difference.
It is difficult to watch the news these days. Whose heart doesn’t ache as we witness what is happening to our fellow world citizens? In Ukraine, people just like us—who want to live healthy lives while raising their families, enjoying friends, being good citizens, working, and living in peace—find their very existence in jeopardy.
From the safety of our homes, we watch with anxiety as millions of people are forced to evacuate the country they love, mothers leaving with their children while their husbands, fathers, and sons are left to fight a war that they never wanted. It’s heart-breaking to see a beautiful people and country be overrun with tanks and bombs.
And yet, there is such inspiration in the spirit of the Ukrainian people who refuse to back down, who are resilient, determined, and committed to protect their freedom and to save all that is precious to them, even as their loved ones, homes and lives are on the line. And always, in the midst of atrocities, there are those courageous people who restore our faith in humanity, who will risk their own health and well-being to help total strangers.
We may wonder what we can do to alleviate the suffering of others—especially when that suffering is caused by other humans. We are one. We are all connected. What if we could find simple, meaningful ways to help now from where we are: everything from sending prayers and loving thoughts out for the safety and well-being of those in Ukraine—to contacting our political leaders, asking them to represent our country by offering financial help and medical necessities.
There are many wonderful organizations and charities working to help the Ukrainian people, as well as in other areas of the world. Donations help. Every little bit counts. (For example, last week, my partner Francesco and I got a small refund and considered it a perfect opportunity to donate that money to www.CARE.ORG Ukraine. We plan to send more). Mary B., who offers free outdoor yoga classes, will give ALL DONATIONS for the month of March to Care.org for their Ukraine Crisis Fund. Their website states: “Your emergency gift supports CARE’s Ukraine Crisis Fund to reach 4 million with immediate aid and recovery, food, water, hygiene kits, psychosocial support, and cash assistance—prioritizing women and girls, families, and the elderly.” And another friend, Paula, found WorldCentralkitchen (wck.org) a good option to help—and there are so many more. What is your favorite charity to support?
Thoughts can become actions and there are so many ways that we can make a positive difference. Don’t second guess yourself. Just do it! You will be touching the lives of those who need it most and you will feel better too.
Blessings to you, your loved ones, and the people of Ukraine.
Linda Commito, author, speaker, entrepreneur, consultant and teacher, is passionate about her vision to leave this world a kinder, more loving, and interconnected place. Linda’s award-winning book of inspirational stories, Love Is the New Currency, demonstrates how we can each make an extraordinary difference in the lives of others through simple acts of love and kindness. Her latest project, the card game Just Ask 1 2 3, was inspired by a desire to connect people of all different ages, beliefs and lifestyles to share our individuality and find commonality. Linda also created “Kindness Starts with Me,” a program, book and website for children. For more information visit http://www.LoveistheNewCurrency.com or visit the Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/Justask123game.