Note to Self: On difficult days, focus on what YOU can change.
When tragedy strikes - near to us or across the world - it's overwhelming. We feel everything at once: Outrage, fear, anxiety, frustration, bewildered - even a desire for justice. Our emotions rightfully tell us something is wrong; Our intellect generates a thousand what-ifs and answers to try. Amidst this excitement of heart and mind, it's strange to think that we can also feel Helpless.
When this happens to me, I step back and release the desire to "resolve" everything and everyone. If I feel tempted to scream, I don't do it to a complete stranger, in person or comment-box.
I start with what I can always improve: MYSELF.
I learn the facts. I listen before I speak. I take what steps I can, make changes for myself, my family, and anyone who asks me for help. I accept that the solution starts with doing my part - that I'll only feed my helplessness if I wait until others do what-I-think-is-their-part.
A better society is built one person at a time, and that one person is ME.
My part makes a difference, big and small every day. Pay my taxes. Work hard at my job. Comport myself well with others. Stop at stop signs. Help someone across the street. Maintain a clean yard. Keeping my dog on a leash. Nurture and guide my family. Mind my business in public. Act against injustice where I must. Vote in good conscience, to the best of my ability.
There is a way to "change things."
It starts by changing myself.
Somehow it doesn't seem as satisfying as demanding the world do what I say, when I say, how I say. But at the same time, I don't need to wait for a law or a lawmaker to tell me what to do or how to do it. I can get started on the right thing, the right way, right now.
Besides, in a huge world, I'm cautious to believe I'm the one to say. To anyone other than myself, that is.
So today I say to myself: No need to feel powerless.
Just keep working on YOU, doing your part.
And before you know it,
The world will be changed for the better.
I'm sure of it.