MAKE A DIFFERENCE THROUGH ALL YOU SAY AND DO

Everyone should “make a difference” in life – but what “making a difference” means is not the same to everyone. Some would think that making a difference means to change the world while others might think getting through the day by helping to provide the needs those depending upon them might have is the greatest difference they might make. Some might think they can make a difference by fulfilling their dreams – by bringing to fruition their boldest imaginings – while others might wish only to dream without being awakened by the nightmare of things outside their control. Some might wish for fame, fortune or other recognition – to be “that person” the world places upon the pedestal of success. Others might hope to survive the darkness that shrouds their day – hoping only that their tomorrow will be brighter than their today.

 

Making a difference is the foundation upon which we build self-confidence and values – the base from which we establish who we are and what we wish to become. Building upon a firm and solid foundation can help us make a lasting difference – allow us to carry a heavy load without losing stability...allow us to go confidently (even if not always directly) from where we are to where we wish to be without drifting aimlessly having no hope or purpose. Far too many people, however, prefer to build upon shifting sands set upon the vast horizon of an ocean unable to be tamed and untested principles that entice them to act without thinking as they seek monumental results from their minimal (and often misguided) efforts. 

Some people dream of success – of being something or somewhere else – preferring to remain in the comfort of their slumber without investing the emotional capital needed to transform their good intentions to reality. Others wake from their dreams and begin working to bring them to fruition – to put into action the thoughts that came to them through the mists of the night by taking intentional action to move them forward. We can lead, follow or get out of the way in life – but standing (without moving) often results in our being run down by seemingly undeterred forces then abandoned alongside the road, left in the wake of those truly making a difference as they move forward to achieve their goals. Taking action – ANY action – provides us the opportunity to make a difference as the only “wrong” decision in life is one not made (which includes intentionally OR unintentionally deciding) – the only “inadequate” action is one not taken (whether by design or default).

We can all make a difference in life – but not all of us will make the same difference. Some are working on becoming all they might become – having very little energy (or inclination) to make a difference in the life of another. They take one day at a time – living a life that seemingly offers more redundancy than reward, more sense of survival than source of stimulation. The survivors in life often get by but rarely get ahead unless (and until) they consciously decide to make a difference in themselves so that they can impact others for “doing what I say, not what I do” is an impossible life to maintain.  Others seem always to give back far more than they could ever hope or dream to receive in return – finding more joy in the journey than delight in the destination.  They often seek to help others – to give to or care for them – even more than they care about themselves. 

When we help others to grow we make ourselves stronger and more confident along the way.  Making a difference starts with making the changes in yourself so that you are mentally, physically and emotionally ready to make a difference in the lives of others. It is pulling others up with you rather than crawling over their backs as you reach for the top.  It is adding value to their lives of others and finding that such contributions return far more to yourself than the personal time and effort invested.  We all make a difference in life – be it our own or be it someone else’s – whenever we consciously (by commission) OR unconsciously (by omission) refuse to accept “what is” as all that might ever be.  Make a difference in YOUR life and you will be able to make a difference in the lives of those near you for only by BEING different will you ever be able to MAKE A DIFFERENCE...all else is but insanity.