Making a Difference From a Distance
After this last year of life, I’ve spent more quality time with my room and my bed than I ever thought possible.
Of course, we’ve all been cooped up for almost a year now due to COVID, and now Mississippi, where I live, somehow had an ice storm of all things. My car is caked in icicles and hasn’t been driven in nearly a week. I’m trapped in my house, working on homework and watching TV with my roommates.
As I sit in my bed at 1 p.m. in my pajamas, I think “Gosh, is this all life is?” Am I really just doing my thing and hardly even interacting with others? Aren’t I supposed to be helping the community and making a difference in the world?
The answer to that is yes, of course. I just have to remember I can’t control my circumstances, like the fact that I am physically unable to leave the confines of my yard. I don’t know about you, but this pandemic has severely impacted my sociability. While life may be different, there are still plenty of ways to look beyond yourself and make the world a better place—from a distance.
First off, you have to understand that some days the best thing you can do is take care of yourself. Don’t feel bad because you’re not doing more and more and more; this can turn into a constant cycle of unhealthy pressure and result in anxiety. Trust me, I would know.
Focus on keeping yourself healthy (mentally and physically) and your daily tasks. Sometimes, survival is the goal and that’s okay. But if you’re like me, the heaviness of expectation can be hard to ignore. Here are a few ways you can make a difference within the craziness.
Donate to an organization.
There are countless organizations all over the world helping those who are struggling to survive. Pick one that pricks your heart, make sure it is reliable, and donate. Even the smallest of amounts makes a difference. You can go to this website to view a list of charities with high ratings for transparency and efficacy.
Don’t discount the little things.
Roommates and family are people too. Look for ways to help them, even if they are the smallest acts of kindness. If they’re having a bad day, make them their favorite food or just do the dishes so they don’t have to. Even an encouraging word can go a long way. You could change their day completely.
Be creative.
Different, challenging circumstances calls for thinking of innovative ways to help. In Starkville, I heard stories of someone bringing food to their elderly neighbors on an ATV. Later, I saw a story of people clearing snow off of hospital workers’ cars to thank them for their months of hard work and sacrifice during the pandemic. Consider sending a letter or a package of goodies to a far-off friend. Think “what can I do with what I have?” and don’t be afraid to do something new.
Start a blog!
I mean… that’s what we did. If you’re a writer and want to make an impact on prevalent issues, don’t be afraid to use the internet to your advantage. Advocate for your passions and show others they’re not alone. It’s a pretty fun option, if I do say so myself.
Although we’re all stuck in our own separate homes most of the time these days, we can still come together as one to help each other. We just have to be a little more creative about it. Now, tell me, how are you going to make your mark?
I’m cheering you on!
Sincerely, Hannah
Photography: Hannah B. and Abbey C.