By Guest writer and Cornerstone University Student Alex Perry
If you are anything like me, you tend to live your life in a bubble. I often find myself gazing off when I am working on something to think of a person, place, situation that is not happening in the current moment. People have had to call me back to earth from a daydream quite a few times. I can be unaware of the struggles of others because of this habit.
This week I have been trying to be more aware of others. I can have an effect on the lives of people around me by paying attention to my surroundings. One thing I have done this week is to go out of my way to talk to a friend who is alone. As a college student, during the last weeks of the semester, I find myself wanting to keep to myself and worry about my own tasks.
But I know that people need kindness during times of stress. Like end-of-the-semester stress! Instead of walking by, I stopped to chat with my friend and found myself encouraged after our conversation. (I hope she felt this too!) I do not know the specific struggle she may have been facing, but I do believe that a small act of kindness goes a long way.
Personally, when people talk to me and ask me how I am doing, I feel loved and cared for. It is a sign that they care enough about me to pause their busy day and talk with me to make sure I am okay. These encounters then inspire me to talk to others who may be feeling lonely or discouraged. I am able to encourage and affirm them. Doing this also helps me feel connected with others—that I am part of something larger than my own little world.
Do you create your own bubble too? I challenge you to break out of it and encourage someone today. Start small! You never know how far a simple act of kindness will go in the life of someone who is feeling alone, overwhelmed, or discouraged. You have the choice to speak life into others. Be intentionally kind.
