The Ribbon in My Journal – Phyllis Hoffman DePiano

Make a Difference with Little Acts of Kindness

This past week has been one of great emotion. I watched the devastation across our country just as you did. Hurricanes, horrible fires in Montana, and many other tragedies happened that break our hearts. Then throw in the 9/11 anniversary. My emotions have been on edge. What do we say, what do we do, and how can we make a difference?

On a national level, my heart goes out to the people handling the massive problems that involve millions of people in need. I can’t really grasp the entirety of that overwhelming task. But on a local level, here in Alabama, I have seen people ministering to total strangers who have evacuated to us. Food has been prepared and served with great humility. Communities have formed care groups. Churches have found people who needed a kind face and a hot meal. All those in need have one thing in common: they needed love and hope.

The Bible tells us of faith, hope, and love—the greatest of these being love. Truly that has been displayed in so many ways this week. We have all watched and prayed trying to figure out the first steps in helping people. It seems this week, love and support has reigned supreme in our country. It has been a nice break from the usual noise and should be a part of our daily plan. I know there are millions still in need, and our hearts and prayers will be with them. There are many organizations that are working miracles, and we can support them, too.

In the coming days and years, I am challenging myself to do something nice for one person each day—something that says that I care. Why does it take a national disaster to pull us all together in service? We all rise to any situation, but wouldn’t it be great if we were servants to each other every day? I think it would make a huge difference.

Make a difference in someone’s life today.