Here’s what I’d like to see more of:
Noting when things are happening in places that don’t intersect with our comfort zones. Just because something doesn’t affect us directly doesn’t mean we shouldn’t care. By all means, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t at least pay attention. We can expand our world view and boost our sense of empathy if we start tuning in to the things in our community and our world that stretch beyond where our own feet hit the pavement. The spirit of the current Olympic Games underscores this at a moment when the world needs more care.
Is there devastation in countries we don’t usually think about (i.e. 7 million people displaced in India due to floods)?
Are there ads that don’t represent myriad cultures and ethnicities (i.e. only white people…I’m talking to you, Vineyard Vines.)? Call them out.
Do you hear or see things that disparage other races, religions, genders, or sexual orientation? Say something.
Let’s try to be more aware. Let’s challenge ourselves to pay attention to a broader view and not just what affects us. Let’s be each other’s advocates. Let’s have each other’s backs. Unity, peace, and love start with small individual actions. Let’s stop alienating and instead be an ally.