Originally posted on Facebook and Instagram on Feb. 15, 2018. Reposted here by request for easier sharing.
I’ve rewritten this post 5 times. I can’t quite seem to fully capture what is going through my heart and mind. Maybe you can relate.
This afternoon I bundled up and went for a walk. I couldn’t stop the tears when I saw those flags at half-mast. I then witnessed a mom and her young daughter trudge through the snow and completely replenish one of the ‘free little food banks’ we have around town.
Two people taking action. Making a difference. Putting their care out into the world, sending a message, doing what they can to ease another’s burden.
I do a lot for the causes I believe in, but I could do more.
I speak up for the values that matter most to me, but I could speak more.
How about you?
We cannot just say things need to change, we must BE the change. Starting where we are, with what we have, in honor of what matters most.
Maybe that means replenishing a food bank. Funding a nonprofit that brings communities together. Running for political office. Joining a group committed to a higher purpose. Thanking a teacher, service provider, first responder, child. Acknowledging a kindness or speaking up in the event of an unkindness. Supporting a leader who stands for what is right. Looking people in the eye, engaging in meaningful dialogue with an open mind and heart, sharing our gifts even when it feels difficult to do so.
Whatever that means for you, are you willing to take an action?
I am. I am more committed than ever to setting a positive, purposeful ripple effect in motion. I promise to keep you posted.
Near the end of my walk, I spotted this leaf. Maybe I’m seeing what I want to see, but to me, it looks like a heart. Scarred and imperfect, but standing out nonetheless. We can all take our scarred hearts and imperfectness and prompt some beautiful change in our world. Who’s ready?
So much love to all. 
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