World We Imagine - Part 1

 The "big issues" we face as a society often feel overwhelmingly daunting and too big to even approach. Topics like climate change, poverty, inequality, global health, and human rights violations seem insurmountable, especially for a 22-year-old college student like myself. Just navigating the journey to independence feels like a monumental task, let alone making a significant positive impact on the world. Even smaller, more personal problems can appear impossible to change. When I see the issue of homelessness on Skid Row, read headlines about the devastation from Taiwan's recent earthquake, or receive DPS notifications about attempted rape, I'm left feeling so helpless. I'm at a loss as to how I can contribute to making any of this better in any meaningful way.

I think it’s important to recognize that even small actions can contribute to positive change. Instead of trying to tackle global issues single-handedly, I want to focus on making a difference in my local community. My first step in making the world a better place begins with one person. This one person is not a specific indivudal but rather a mindset. I hope to make a difference one person at a time. 

When I was in high school I volunteered with several non-profit organizations. I worked with children at a learning center for kids with autism and also taught children how to swim at an orphanage. As I’m moving to NYC this summer, I hope to find similar organizations with missions and values that I identify with. It would be extremely rewarding and purposeful to be able to help even just one person's life slightly better. 

Beyond this, I also want to be good to the people in my life. I want to continue to be a compassionate, understanding, and kind person. I want to be make a difference through my friendships, my work relationships, and all the people I may encounter in my day to day life. I think that even small acts of kindness from a stranger can enforce and remind us of the human values we hope to build as a community. 

Lastly, I recognize that I need to take care of my own well-being before charging forth and confronting many of the weighty issues in this world (big or small). Being kind to myself allows me to sustain my efforts over the long term and remain resilient in the face of adversity. Whether it's practicing meditation, engaging in hobbies that bring me joy, or seeking support from friends, prioritizing self-care enables me to maintain a strong core of strength and calm to continue my journey towards creating positive change.