You Can Make a Difference in This World. Yes You Can!

I was recently introduced to a man by a mutual friend. In conversation it transpired that he did not read newspapers, listen to the radio or watch television. I asked him how he got on not knowing what was going on in the world. He replied that he could not change anything, he just lived his life as he chose. He is unmarried and is able to please himself what he does and when he does it. This seems on the surface to be a lovely state of affairs, without commitment to anybody or anything but I thought this to be a shallow and selfish existence. Later as the time passed he redeemed himself and I was so annoyed with myself that I had jumped to conclusions.

The football team.

Peter revealed that he has an interest, this is football. Every Wednesday evening he coached schoolboy football teams. Every Saturday and Sunday he was at football matches with his charges. Along with mums and dads, he organised the leagues, the kit, team selection, the buses to take everyone to the matches and everything else required of a dedicated, caring volunteer. That dear reader is making a difference.

The Starfish.

On my way home an old story came to mind; A man was walking along a near deserted beach. He was bending over at times picking up Starfish and throwing them back into the sea. A second man walked passed and asked why he was doing such a thing. The tide would soon be in again, depositing more Starfish in the beach. Hundreds of them he said, 'You won't make any difference' The first man picked up another Starfish and threw it into the waves. He turned to the second man, looked him in the eye and said 'I made a difference to him' Such a small act but he was making a difference.

A friend in need.

A few years ago a friend of mine lost his sight. After a while he was awarded a Guide Dog, this made a tremendous difference to his life, allowing him to go out alone and giving his wife a little time to herself, for as his carer she had indeed been making a difference. He became involved in fund raising for the provision of Guide Dogs for other people, who were unable to see what we perhaps, take for granted. He attended meetings and functions at times and sometimes I would drive him to the venue. Sometimes I might stay with him, other times I would drop him off and then pick him up and bring him home. He volunteered his services. He was making a difference. I although not involved with his work, was also making a difference, the smallest gesture, the smallest act of kindness can mean so much to so many. I wonder what you might do today to make a difference.

Why Be A Nice Guy? Is It Worth It?

Please see photographs below.