Music Notes

Challenge Day 7

The world is not an ideal place for lots of people. What can YOU do to make it better?

I have a tendency to avoid engaging with bad news, sheltering myself from the outside world because I feel helpless to do anything about everything that's wrong with it. If you asked me about the Israeli Palestinian conflict, or the economy, or Russia and Ukraine, or any number of current issues, I wouldn't have an answer or even a strong opinion either way. I've forced myself to "not care" out of sheer pessimism and also due to a tendency to get lost in the arguments on all sides while trying to be reasonable and open-minded.

Having started off on a dreary note, I'll now address the simple question: what can I actually do, in practical everyday terms, to make the world a better place?

I'm a believer in "charity begins at home," and that means I'll have to start small with what I have, which firstly is myself. I can start each day with a smile instead of a groan. I can end each day by noting down three good things which happened. I can try my best to treat others with respect and kindness. I can think before I speak or post.

Another thing I can do which potentially has far reaching effects is to write. Even if I feel inadequate to address social issues non-fictionally, I can write stories of hope and redemption, of wrongs being righted, of situations brought to light. I can explore the good, the true and the beautiful in my own unique way, bringing my perspective and experience into my creations and allowing others a glimpse into my values and worldview.

I don't know if these small actions will make the world any better, but I do know I will be a better person if I could remember these "cans" instead of dwelling on the "can'ts" of my life.

Thank you for hosting this blogging challenge. I really enjoyed it.

Word Count: 318.