Dear Veronica,
I am currently feeling useless. With everything going on in the world I have been feeling like I need to do something to make a positive change. I am a high school student so I don’t have the time nor resources to do something huge. I want to make the change that I want to see in the world, as cliche as that sounds. I just don’t know where to start. Please help me fill this void.
Sincerely,
Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
I totally understand where you are coming from. I think this is a very common conundrum and I know I’ve had periods in my life where I was going through the same thing as you. The first thing you need to remind yourself of is that you are in highschool and you aren’t capable of transforming our world by yourself. That doesn’t mean your contribution isn’t important, but you shouldn’t feel guilty for not being the world’s number one philanthropist!
I’ve compiled a list of small things you can do to make a big impact!
Make a difference in yourself- Make sure you are being positive and kind because that kind of stuff is contagious.
Treat others the way you want to be treated- You’ve heard it a million times!
Inform yourself- Pay attention to the news. Democracy works best when the citizens can form their own opinions based on facts. There are a lot of eye-catching headlines going around so, make sure you are only spreading accurate information.
Respect everyone- How would you like it if someone ridiculed your beliefs?
Listen- Everyone is going through something. If you can help someone through their hardships by just listening, do it.
Recycle- The planet isn’t going to save itself.
Give- Give whatever you can! Donate your old clothes to thrift shops and give whatever change you have to a good cause.
See the good in people- Instead of assuming the worst in people after first impression, expect them to be a potential new best friend. Doing this could open a ton of doors.
Good luck!
Love,
Veronica
The Self-Proclaimed Expert on Just About Everything