Changing the world

[Zada Connaway]

It is not possible to change the world, you say? Maybe not, but we can change our own little corner of it. A smile here, and a kind word there, can make a huge difference in another person's outlook.

If someone meets you with a frown, try smiling at them and see if their face doesn't brighten. With that brighter outlook, those they meet will benefit, and so will they.

I think the best thing that happens is that I feel better when I practice this philosophy. When I am kind to others, they are usually kind in return. And it only takes a moment of time to offer a smile, words of encouragement or a gesture of kindness.

When entering a busy street with your vehicle, and someone allows you to merge, do you wave and mouth 'thank you', or do you just barge in without giving it a second thought? A small show of appreciation makes it easier for that person to do the same thing again for someone else.

The American people seem to be losing their manners, and throwing common courtesy out the window. But individuals can make a difference, just in how they treat those around them. I am trying to brighten my little corner of the world. How about you?