Inspiration

I am not talking about shows that are on weekly such as Gilmore Girls or Smallville. The other day I was watching the news when I came across a very intriguing report. It was about a group of male college students who perform good deeds to strangers on the street. That got me thinking. Don't you feel good when someone who you don't know or haven't met before does something good for you? It could be even a simple hello or wave of the hand. In this news report, it showed the students giving flowers and offering hugs, money, etc to other people. Furthermore, they wanted to do this for a living. They look for sponsors who help them perform good deeds for other people, and hope to spread the kindness around. You may be shocked, but some people are very impressed with what they are doing. Although it is difficult for them to get sponsors from big-name companies, small grocery stores and businesses offer small amounts of money, which is a good start and greatly appreciated.

That same day I watched something called "The Angel Network" that happens sometimes on a popular talk-show. Over one million dollars was given to different charities around America on that show. These people were ones who inspired others and had their own unique ways to change people's lives and create miracles. One man ran an all-boy's choir for homeless students. Another helped to support a children's camp. Many of these people spent their own time, energy, and money on helping other people. Would you be as generous with your life?

Have you ever seen the movie "Pay it Forward"? In it, the protagonist creates a plan to help people. He tells his classmates that for a project, he helped three people. His hope was that those three people would help another three people, who would help another three people, and so on. This would establish a chain of good deeds.

Why am I talking about these things? It may seem like I am ranting to myself (which I might be doing), but I my goal is to target the events of September 11, 2001. No one will forget that day, especially those who lost a loved one in the tragedy. But out of all of that suffering came a new light, one that hadn't been shown much before. I recall after the attack, people were asked to donate blood for the victims. There was an outstanding response from people across Canada and the United States. Not to mention the brave people who worked in New York City as part of the rescue teams, many of whom risked their own lives to save someone else's. Heroic? Very.

Think about the unity in the town after the attack. Some people left New York for fear of further attacks, but most stayed. Despite the events of 9/11, it was their home. Local citizens pitched in to help workers and those in need. Memorial services took place throughout North America (and probably the World) to remember the victims and their families. Although sadness came out of the events, unity, strength, and determination were also reflected, something that everyone should be extremely proud of.

Even on Whyville, we can be helpful. Let us not forget the supply of curious newbies we have. Think of how happy and proud they might feel when they know that someone is willing to help them! I have seen many citizens give generously. I have even seen new citizens overjoyed when they are given a part that they cannot otherwise afford.

A kind word can go pretty far. Take the time to introduce yourself to someone new, even someone who may seem lost or out of the crowd. After all, you won't lose your "popularity" for helping others. If anything, you would make yourself more respected. Besides, what do you have to lose? If your friends criticize you, were they real friends to begin with? Make it your objective to stand out of the crowd and do something nice for someone else.

Some may say to 'Pay it Forward'. I just want to tell you that you should look inside yourself and see what it is that you have to give. Think of those who have shaped and inspired, not just on September 11. Mother Theresa and Martin Luther King, Jr. are just two of the many people who chose to follow the minority, not the majority. When you go to reflect on the occurrences a year ago, stop to think of the positive things. Think of how diversity helps to shape the world that we live in.

I remember well when I won first prize in a poster contest in Grade 5. The theme and motto for the contest was "Kindness is Contagious -- Catch It". I remember the pictures I drew showing people helping others. As time progressed, my opinion on the world differed slightly, but the hope of triumph over tribulation (you could say) still remains. Even after all we have gone through as a community.

Remember that you are loved, although at times it might seem like you aren't. Remember that you have talent and that you have the power to do good. To inspire, to teach, and to make goals and dreams for yourself. Instead of showing sadness over the events of 911, rejoice on the lives and spirits of the people involved. Take this opportunity to be good and to do good. I'll leave you with my memories of Grade 5. Boo-ya.

Kindness is Contagious -- Catch It!

TIKE