When we see how much pain and suffering there is in the world, it can feel discouraging. It can feel like we have no influence over the large, global problems we are facing. Our spiritual work is meant to bring about positive change in the world, but it can seem like a long, slow process without an end in sight. How can we ever make a difference?
"How can we ever make a difference?"
In truth, there are small things we can do each day that make a big difference in changing the world for the better. The kabbalists teach that for every spiritual action, no matter how great or how small, a ripple effect is created spreading Light throughout the whole of humanity. If we understand that each of us is interconnected, then our good deeds do not end with us alone, but in fact affect the whole of humanity, tilting the scales towards positivity for global change.
Here are 5 ways to make a difference today:
1. Share with someone.
It’s funny that we learn the importance of sharing in kindergarten and somehow forget about it as we get older. While we might not be sharing our favorite toy anymore, there are always opportunities to share our time, advice, or love with someone in need. When we go out of our way to brighten someone’s day or bring joy to their lives, not only does it make them feel good, it also reveals Light in the world. Look for a chance to help someone today!
2. Study spirituality.
The kabbalists teach that when we study wisdom, we are literally tilting the cosmic scales towards positivity, not just for ourselves, but for the entire world. There is an energy that reverberates out into everything, because everything is interconnected. It is amazing to think that, just by taking some time to study, we can spread Light into the world!
3. Set your mind for positivity.
According to the kabbalists, one of the most important parts of our spiritual work is our mindset. Simply by remembering that the hand of the Creator is in everything, no matter how difficult, we can connect to the Light and bring positive change in the world. Try taking a few minutes in the morning to set your intentions for the day. Focus on putting love and Light out into the world. The intention alone is enough to inspire huge changes in the world!
4. Spread wisdom.
It is such a gift that we have access to the power of ancient wisdom. There are many ways for us to share that with others. Bring a friend to a class, gift a Zohar to someone, or share a piece of wisdom on social media. Think about all the positive changes that the wisdom has brought into your life. You can do your part to help others experience that, as well! Helping others connect to the Light of the Creator is an important part of our spiritual work and brings us one step closer to global change.
5. Volunteer.
We often hear about the struggles of homeless youth, starving families, and victims of disasters, but how often do we make time to go out of our way and help? It doesn’t take much to volunteer, just a little bit of time and effort. Volunteering is a wonderful way to improve the conditions of those in your local community or the world at large. Every little bit helps.
Our beloved teacher, Rav Berg, would often say, “We cannot have a better world without better people in it.” With each spiritual action we take, the world becomes a better place for it.
Changing the world doesn’t happen overnight, but there are small steps we can take every day to revealing more Light and love in the world. Why not start today?
