Change the World!!!

Who is going to change the World, if not you?

As a parent, one of my main goals is to help my kids understand that it's both a privilege and a responsibility to go out into the world and spread love and light. In a society that often feels bogged down by negativity, division, and hostility, it's important for us to counter these vibes with positivity and compassion. We really need to shift back towards love, kindness, and understanding, instead of letting hate and intolerance take over our conversations and actions.

To make this big change happen, we have to start by being the change we want to see. This means we, as parents, need to live out love, empathy, and respect every day, showing our kids that these aren't just nice ideas but key parts of a meaningful life. By doing kind things, volunteering in our communities, and showing compassion to those around us, we can show how love can be real and practical.

It's also important to talk openly with our kids about the challenges and injustices in the world, helping them see why standing up for what's right matters. Encouraging them to share their thoughts and feelings about these issues will help them become thoughtful and engaged people who aren't afraid to stand up for love and justice. You've probably heard this before, but it’s worth repeating: change starts with us. It's not enough to just hope for a better world; we have to actively work towards it.

By teaching our kids to feel responsible, we can inspire them to make a positive impact, whether it's through small everyday actions or bigger community projects. Together, we can raise a generation that chooses love over hate, and in doing so, contribute to a brighter, more compassionate future for everyone.

Here are a few ways you can help

• Making schools happier/safer places

• Picking up trash

• Hate the excuse “well he/she was mean to me first.” Two wrongs don’t make a right people!

• Nobody should starve to death

• Bringing kids to a nursing home

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We CAN Change Who We Once Were

My husband says I've changed a lot; I'm more laid-back and positive now, which has really improved the vibe at home. There's less yelling, mostly just the kids when they have little spats, and no more physical fights—just the usual sibling stuff. My husband's also working on staying calm. Lots of people have praised our kids for being kind, loving, and respectful. Even when they were younger, before tablets were everywhere, people would thank us for how well-behaved they were at dinners. That's pretty rare these days, even with tablets around.

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I challenge you!

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I'm speaking to all the fiercely competitive people out there. You know who you are, and so does everyone else. Relax a bit. You're not more special than anyone else.

PAY IT FORWARD!!!!!! Go out and do something kind for your neighbors without expecting anything in return.

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Giving to the community!

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Oh the Simple Things We Take For Granted!

I'm not exactly sure why I decided to write about this story right now, but it really struck a chord with me. Maybe someone out there needs to hear it today!

Back in my early 20s, I got super involved with a local church's food donation program. The whole idea was to help out the community, especially those who were having a tough time getting by. It wasn't just about feeding people; it was about building a sense of connection and compassion in our neighborhood. Every week, we'd collect donations from all over—local grocery stores, community folks, and church members—and then pack our cars with bags full of non-perishable food, fresh produce, and other essentials.

I can clearly remember the times we'd drive into Section 8 neighborhoods, places often facing economic and social struggles. As we pulled up, kids would come running toward us, their faces lighting up with hope and excitement. They weren't just there for the food; they were looking for some affection and attention they might not be getting at home. A lot of these kids had been through tough times, and you could see it in the way they acted; they'd follow us around, reaching out with their little hands, craving the care and kindness that seemed to be missing from their everyday lives.

As I spent time with these families and saw their struggles up close, I started to see a more troubling side of things. It was really upsetting to watch some parents dealing with addiction, using drugs right in front of their kids. Seeing kids asking for food while their parents were too caught up in their own issues to take care of them was heartbreaking. The contrast between the kids' innocent cries for help and the tough situations they were in really highlighted the challenges many families are up against.

This experience really changed how I think about community support and charity. It became obvious that just giving out food and temporary help wasn't enough. Sure, handing out meals helped with immediate hunger, but it was just a quick fix for a much bigger problem. Giving food might ease their struggles for a bit, but it didn't tackle the real issues like poverty, addiction, and family instability.

I realized that real support needed a more comprehensive approach—one that not only offered basic resources but also aimed to empower people and families to tackle the root causes of their situations. This understanding led me to think about how we could add more services to our program, like counseling, job training, and educational support, to help break the cycle of dependency and encourage long-term change.

Thinking about these experiences really opened my eyes to the big issues in our society that keep poverty and neglect going. It made me realize how important it is for the community to get involved and for different groups to work together to find long-lasting solutions to these complex problems. On this journey, I discovered that we need to lead with compassion and empathy, along with a strong commitment to addressing the deeper societal issues affecting so many families.

Some people aren't using resources to help their kids; instead, they're stuck in harmful habits. This harsh reality shows a troubling pattern where resources that could help the next generation are being wasted on negative behaviors. The impact of this is huge, affecting not just the kids' immediate surroundings but also their future chances. That's why the kids were so eager to come to us when we arrived, looking for comfort and support in a world that seems to have let them down. Their eagerness to connect with us is a powerful reminder of their urgent need for guidance, care, and hope.

Honestly, it's just shameful that government officials have let these kids suffer when they shouldn't have to, stopping them from having a future that's better than what they have now. The way the system keeps letting this happen shows a bigger problem with society ignoring what's important. Policies that should be all about helping kids often get buried under red tape and a lack of responsibility. The people who are supposed to help and protect these vulnerable kids are actually making things worse, trapping them in a cycle of despair. Not giving them enough resources, support, and education not only holds them back but also keeps them stuck in poverty and hopelessness.

These kids, caught in this mess, have to deal with challenges they shouldn't have to face. They're just looking for some stability, love, and a chance to dream of a better future. But instead, they're stuck dealing with tough realities made worse by the systems that are supposed to help. We really need to recognize this injustice and push for real changes that focus on what these kids need, making sure they get the chance to thrive, not just survive.

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A Special Bond

I often share stories with my daughter about the folks at the nursing home where I work. It's a place that offers care and companionship to the elderly. These aren't just any stories; they're filled with the rich experiences and histories of the people living there. My daughter is super interested in visiting and joining in on activities with them, which really warms my heart. Why not? It's a great chance for her to learn about compassion, empathy, and community. Plus, the residents love these interactions—they bring a spark of joy and connection to their lives. It's amazing how a child can bring back memories of the past, sparking stories of their good old days and cherished moments they might have forgotten. We've decided to visit the nursing home once a week, and it's something we both look forward to. Sure, sometimes life gets busy or things come up, and we can't make it every week. But when we do go, we usually play fun games like tossing around big balloons. It's not just about having fun; it helps keep the residents active and social. The laughter and smiles during these times are truly heartwarming, and it's fulfilling to see how such a simple activity can brighten their day. These visits also teach my daughter valuable lessons in patience and understanding, as she learns to communicate with people who might see the world differently. The joy that shines from the residents during these activities reminds us all of the importance of human connection, no matter our age. Each visit is a chance for my daughter to see the beauty in life stories, the strength of the human spirit, and the power of kindness. Through these experiences, we're not just enriching the residents' lives; we're also building a sense of community and belonging that crosses generations. It's a shared journey of discovery, laughter, and mutual respect that we truly cherish.

I hang out with them on days when my daughter isn't around, and the difference is pretty striking. Those days, the residents seem to be their usual gloomy selves, with tired and grumpy expressions. The common areas are quieter, and there's hardly any laughter or chatter. It's like a cloud hangs over the place, casting a shadow on what used to be a lively atmosphere. But when my daughter shows up, it's like magic. Even the grumpiest folks, who usually sport frowns, can't help but smile at her energy and enthusiasm. She's got this amazing knack for connecting with everyone, making sure each person feels special and valued. Whether she's cracking jokes, listening to their stories, or just sitting and holding their hand, she really engages with them. It's awesome to see how she lights up the room, turning an ordinary day into something special. The staff often joke about hiring her, half-seriously suggesting her talent for lifting spirits would be a real asset. Both the residents and staff love her, and it's easy to see why. Kids have this natural ability to bring back a spark in older folks that hasn't been there in a while. They remind them of simpler times, of laughter that used to be so easy, and of the joy in little moments. My daughter totally embodies that spirit, spreading warmth and light wherever she goes. As she interacts with each resident, their faces light up, and their stories start flowing, creating a beautiful mix of shared experiences that bridge the age gap. The joy she brings isn't just a nice gesture; it's a powerful reminder of the connections that can thrive across generations, showing the beauty of human interaction and the healing power of a child's love.

I've always thought it would be awesome if daycares were connected to nursing homes. Mixing these two places could create a cool and enriching experience for both kids and seniors. Imagine a space where little ones get to hang out with older folks, doing fun stuff like arts and crafts or listening to stories filled with life experiences. This setup would not only keep the kids busy but also teach them important values like empathy, compassion, and respect for their elders.

Plus, it would be fantastic for the seniors too. Many older people feel lonely, and having kids around would totally brighten their day. The laughter and energy from the kids would make the place lively and help create social bonds and emotional connections. Spending time with kids could even boost the seniors' mood and mental health.

This kind of setup could also be a great learning opportunity for both groups. Kids could pick up history and life skills from the seniors, while the older folks could learn about modern tech and trends from the kids. This exchange of knowledge and experiences could help bridge the generational gap and build a sense of community for everyone involved.

All in all, having daycares attached to nursing homes is a fantastic idea. It creates a supportive environment that enriches kids' lives and boosts the well-being of seniors. It's a win-win that promotes growth, understanding, and happiness for everyone.

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A Day at the Cat Café

Just like she gives each resident special attention and care, she showed us the same kindness when we visited a super cute cat café yesterday. This place was like nothing I'd ever seen before. As soon as we walked in, we felt the warm and cozy vibe, with lots of tables and chairs inviting us to chill out and enjoy the company of the cats. The café had a great bar where you could grab anything from tasty coffees to refreshing teas, all while watching the cats play around. On the left side was the adult cat area, which was more peaceful and chill, perfect for the older cats to relax in their comfy spots. But on the right, there was a lively room full of kittens, bouncing around with all their playful energy. Naturally, my daughter was drawn to the kitten room—who wouldn’t want to be surrounded by such adorable little creatures, right? Looking through the big glass window between the rooms, I saw about five to seven people in the kitten area, all captivated by the tiny furballs chasing toys and each other. Meanwhile, the adult room was empty, offering a calm spot that I thought might be perfect for us. I suggested we check out the adult room instead, hoping to introduce my daughter to the older cats who might enjoy some gentle company. But as soon as I mentioned it, my daughter had a meltdown, tears streaming down her face. The lady working there, who had been watching, told me that about 90 percent of visitors usually choose the kitten room, which explained all the excitement we saw. It was clear my daughter was part of that majority, and she was set on meeting the playful kittens, making it tough for her to understand why we’d do anything else. Her reaction just showed how strong the pull of kittens can be, especially for a kid who loves that instant joy and connection from playing with such lively and loving animals.

I told her that while the kittens usually steal the spotlight with their playful antics and cuteness, there were other cats around that deserved just as much love and attention. I suggested she check out both rooms in the shelter. In the first room, she saw a lively scene with people playing with a bunch of kittens, their purring and playful moves capturing everyone's hearts. But in the second room, it was a different vibe; it was quieter, filled with older cats patiently waiting for someone to notice them. These cats, maybe not as flashy as the kittens, were just as eager for companionship and affection. Realizing these cats needed love too, she took a deep breath, relaxed, and embraced the situation with an open heart. She saw that every cat, no matter their age or personality, had its own story and needs. We ended up staying for about 45 minutes, even though I had only planned for 30 minutes of playtime. The extra time flew by as she made it her mission to make sure every cat got some attention. She moved gracefully from one cat to another, playing with them using toys like feather wands and balls, while also giving love and gentle pets to those more open to human interaction. Her ability to connect with the cats was amazing; she seemed to naturally understand their personalities and needs. She read their signals expertly, knowing when a cat wanted to play or when it preferred a quiet moment of affection. For example, she noticed a shy tabby hiding in the corner and patiently coaxed him out with soft words and a gentle touch, letting him come to her at his own pace. She made sure to give equal chances for both play and affection, ensuring every cat felt valued and included. By the end of our visit, it was clear her heart had grown to embrace not just the playful kittens but also the quieter, more reserved cats who just needed a little extra time to shine.

I sat there and watched the whole time, and this little one laid there the whole time. Didn’t want me to touch him too much just needed the presence and I was happy to give it to him.

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A Growing Heart

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Just like I showed her! My little girl is quickly turning into an amazing young lady, and she's only 8. She's got this "old soul" vibe. She's insightful, smart, and quite the entertainer. She's super social too. That's where we're different. We both love people, but in our own ways. She loves hanging out, chatting, and being around others, which I find amazing! We're both empaths. For me, too many people can be exhausting. I often feel like leaving soon after I arrive. But not my daughter! She's the one mingling, chatting with everyone, and always wearing a genuine smile.

When she was just one, we took her to a social event in our city. We let her wander a bit ahead of us and check things out. She would walk up to people and just stand there, looking at them. She did this several times. At only one year old! I see so much of myself in her—a little version of me. The only difference is that life hasn't made her cynical, so she always keeps a positive outlook.

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Moments That Matter

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I know quite a few parents who have kids with autism, and through them, I've learned a lot about how inclusion and friendship work among kids. Two parents, in particular, have mentioned how much they appreciate my daughter’s amazing way of including their kids. They’ve told me how touching it is to see her naturally connect with kids of different abilities and personalities. Whenever she visits their homes to hang out with her friend, she always makes an effort to include the siblings in whatever they’re doing, no matter who they are or what challenges they face. This thoughtful approach not only makes everyone feel like they belong but also creates a supportive environment where all the kids can really thrive. Recently, during a memorable playdate at her friend’s house—where her friend has a younger sister and an autistic brother—the way the kids interacted was a beautiful example of inclusion. Their mom watched with appreciation as my daughter consistently included the autistic brother in everything they did. Whether they were building with blocks, playing pretend, or just having a snack, she made sure he was part of the fun, making him feel valued and included. Her actions not only show her natural kindness but also set a great example for other kids, proving that friendship has no limits and every child brings something special to the group.

Life's all about those little moments that really count and make a difference. These quick flashes, often missed in our busy daily grind, are what shape our experiences and memories. They could be as simple as sharing a laugh with a buddy, enjoying a quiet moment watching the sunset, or having a deep conversation that changes how we see things. Every moment has the power to shape our thoughts, sway our choices, and ultimately define who we are.

Think about how just one moment can change everything; it might steer our lives in ways we don't even notice right away. Meeting a stranger by chance could turn into a lifelong friendship, or a small burst of courage might push us to chase a dream we had shelved. These moments often pop up out of the blue, reminding us to stay open to whatever life throws our way. They show us the importance of living in the moment, urging us to enjoy the present instead of dwelling on past regrets or worrying about the future.

Plus, these moments aren't just about personal growth; they help us connect with others too. Sharing experiences builds bonds that can last a lifetime, filling our lives with a sense of belonging and community. Whether it's celebrating big achievements, tackling challenges together, or just enjoying each other's company, these shared moments are what strengthen our relationships and give us a support system when things get tough.

Basically, it's super important to notice and enjoy the moments that really count. When we do this, we become more aware of what's around us and the people we care about. This kind of mindfulness boosts our well-being and pushes us to make more meaningful memories. As we go through life, let's try to fully embrace every moment, knowing that sometimes the little things end up having the biggest impact on our journey.

It's such a relief to realize I haven't completely messed up as a mom. Over the years, I've been hit with criticism, labeled a bad mom more times than I can count, and there were plenty of times I started to believe it. It's tough not to feel crushed by all that negativity, especially when my kids' well-being is on the line. But I've learned that in the big picture of parenting, I'm only human. I make mistakes like everyone else. What really counts is how I handle those slip-ups. Every mistake is a chance for me and my kids to learn and grow. I try to embrace these lessons because they're a key part of our journey together. I'm dedicated to improving myself every day, not just for me, but for my kids too. I want them to see my efforts and understand that self-improvement is something we work on our whole lives. By showing them this, I hope to inspire them to grow and tackle their own challenges with resilience and grace. In a world that often feels so dark, I truly believe we need more light. Negativity and despair have been in the spotlight for too long. When I look at my four kids, I'm filled with confidence and hope. I know deep down that they have the power to bring light to the world throughout their lives. This belief comes from the lessons I've taught them—about compassion, empathy, and spreading positivity. I've shown them how to shine, embrace their unique gifts, and share those gifts with others. As they grow and find their own paths, I'm optimistic they'll carry this light with them, brightening the lives of those they meet. I imagine a future where they not only succeed but also lift others up, creating a wave of kindness and hope. By nurturing their spirits and encouraging their individuality, I'm confident they'll become beacons of light in a world that really needs it. ✨ 💜

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People that Single-Handedly Changed the World for Good (let me know about more)

• Mother Theresa

• Mahatma Ghandi

• Neil Armstrong

• Rosa Parks

• Martin Luther King Jr

• Cleopatra

• Jesus

• Virgin Mary

• Elon Musk

• Donald Trump

• George Washington A simple man that LOVED dogs)

• Abraham Lincoln

• Thomas Jefferson

• Theodore Roosevelt

• Martha Washington

• Elenor Roosevelt

• Betty Ford

• Queen Elizabeth 1 (Where the State of Virginia got its name)

• Princess Diana

• William Shakespeare

• Marie Antoinette (Not all change is good change, but then again look what happened to her, same with the next one).

• Adolf Hitler (bad change)

• Anne Frank

• Helen Keller

• Queen Mary (Bloody Mary) (Bad Change)

• Thomas Edison

• Alexander Graham Bell

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Books 📚

• The Bible (I reference this particular religious text the most due to the fact it’s the one I have the most experience with).

• All The Sacred Texts of Our Major World Religions

• How to Change the World

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Songs 🎤

• “Change the World” - Eric Clapton

• “One Man Can Change The World” - Big Sean (ft. Kanye West and John Legend (What a trio!)

• “Waiting on the World to Change” - John Mayer

• “Spiritual Revolutionary” - Nabil and Karen

• “A Change is Gonna Come” - Sam Cooke (I definitely believe this, It’s due time. The pendulum needs to swing back to good before evil finally wins for good. I think others are starting to really see it too).

• “Change” - Christina Aguilera

• “Man in the Mirror” - Michael Jackson

• “Make a Little Wave” - Demi Lovato and Joe Jonas

• “Change” - Carrie Underwood

• “One Tribe” - Black Eyed Peas

• “Heal the World” - Michael Jackson

• “What About Now” - Daughtery

• “I Need to Wake Up_- Melissa Etheridge

• “Imagine” - John Lennon

• “One Love” - Bob Marley and The Wailers (Talk about a man that was all about some peace and love. RIP Bob Marley!!)

• “With My Own Two Hands” - Ben Harper

• “Once a Day” - Michael Franti and Spearhead

• “Same Love” - Macklemore and Ryan

• “Change the World” - Colby and Awu

• “Do Something” - Matthew West

• “If You Are Out There” - John Legend

• “We Are The World” - USA for Africa

• “Love Is Still The Answer” - Jason Mraz

• “We Want Peace” - Emmanuel Jal

• “Change the World” - Melissa Ethridge

• “One Day” - Matisyahu

• “I Can’t Change The World” - Brad Paisley

• “I Can” - Nas

• “Bomb the World” - Machael Franti and Spearhead

• “Better Way” - Ben Harper

• “We’re All In This Together - Ben Lee

• “Be One” - Natalie Grant

• “Just Another Day in Paradise” - Phil Collins

• “I Was Here” - Lady A

• “Today I’m Gonna Try To Change The World” - Johnny Reid

• “4 Minutes” - Madonna

• “We’re Not Gonna Take It” - Twisted Sister

• “I Was Here” - Beyoncé

• “People Help The People” - Cherry Ghost

• “What’s Going On?” - Marvin Gaye

• “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) - Marvin Gaye

• “Where is the Love?” - Black Eyed Peas

• “Where’s the Love?” - Hanson (Even 3 teens from Tulsa, Oklahoma knew that)

• “Heros (We Could Be)” - Alesso ft. Tove Lo

• “I Won’t Back Down” - Tom Petty

• “You’ve Got to Stand for Something” - Aaron Tippin

• “Firework” - Katy Perry

• “Brave” - Sara Bareilles

• “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing” - The Hillside Singers

• “Revolution” - The Beatles

• “Truth to Power” - OneRepublic

• “We Will Rise Up” - Andra Day

• “Eve of Destruction” - Barry McGuire

• “There’s Still My Joy” - Indigo Girls

• “Looking for Angels” - Skillet

• “That’s How You Change the World” - Newsboys

• “Something in the Air” - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

• “Miss America” - Lily Kershaw

• “What do I know?” - Ed Sheeran

• “If Everyone Cared” - Nickelback

• “Get on Your Feet” - Gloria Estefan

• “Change the World” - Derek Minor

• “For What it’s Worth” - Buffalo Springfield

• “Let’s Make a Better World” - New Nobility

• “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” - Jackie DeShannon

• “Love is the Answer” - England Dan and John Ford Coley

• Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand) - Diana Ross

• “A Scary Time (for boys)” - Lynsey Lab

• “You’re The Voice” - John Farnham

• “Love’s on the Way” - Sebastian Kole

• “Be the Change” - Eric Beillinger

• “Burn” - Ellie Goulding

• “On the Turning Away” - Pink Floyd

• “Whatever it Takes” - Imagine Dragons

• “We Shall Be Free” - Garth Brooks

• “The Change” - Garth Brooks

• “People Loving People” - Garth Brooks (Apparently he got it)

• “Changes” - Tupac Shakur (Featuring Talent)

• “Take a Hand Make a Friend” - The Staple Singers

• “Stand” - Trey Songz

• “The Times They Are a-Changing” - Bob Dylan

• “Walk with You” - Janelle Kroll

• “World Changers” - Matthew West

• “Courage to Change” - Sia

• “Be a Light” - Thomas Rhett

• “What the World Needs Now” - Dionne Warwick

• “People Help the People” - Birdy

• “Can you Feel it?” - The Jacksons

• “Preach” - John Legend

• “Think” - Aretha Franklin

• “Which Side” - Jackson Browne

• “Hush” - Usher

• “Bleed the Same” - Mandisa

• “This One’s For The Children” - New Kids on the Block

• “I We Are The Body” - Casting Crowns

Most songs I got were from this website

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Movies/Shows/Documentaries 🍿

• Pay it Forward

• Ella Enchanted

• Race

• The Boy Who Harnassed the Wind

• Dirt! The Movie

• The Day After Tomorrow

• No Impact Man

• The 11th Hour

• Where to Invade Next

• Living on One Dollar

• Just Eat It: A Food Waste Story

• The Salt of the Earth

• En quite de sans

• The Clean Bin Project

• Down to Earth

• Black Mirror

• The Good Place

• The Handmaid’s Tale

• When They See Us

• Our Planet

• 13th

• The Social Dilemma

• Incorporated

• Frozen Planet

• Years of Living Dangerously

• The 100

• Blue Planet II

• The Age of Nature

• Fortitude

• Planet Earth

  
  

Most movies came from this website

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Bible verses about changing the world for the better ✝️

• Romans 12:2: - "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." 

• Ephesians 4:22-24 - "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." 

• John 13:34-35:- "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." 

• Matthew 5:16:- "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Even though I am not a religious person, this particular verse has always been a favorite of mine.

• Galatians 6:2 - “Carry each other’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

• Hebrews 13:16 - “Don’t forget to do good and to share what you have, because God is pleased with these kinds of sacrifices.”

• John 15:12 - “This is my commandment: love each other just as I have loved you.”

• Matthew 5:42 - “Give to those who ask, and don’t refuse those who wish to borrow from you.”

• Proverbs 19:17 - “Those who are gracious to the poor lend to the Lord, and the Lord will fully repay them.”

• Romans 12:13 - “Contribute to the needs of God’s people, and welcome strangers into your home.”

• Proverbs 3:27 - “Don’t withhold good from someone who deserves it, when it is in your power to do so.”

• Phillipians 2:4 - “Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others.”

• Matthew 25:44-45 - “Then they will reply, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and didn’t do anything to help you?’ Then he will answer, ‘I assure you that when you haven’t done it for one of the least of these, you haven’t done it for me.'”

• Luke 3:10-11 - “The crowds asked him, ‘What then should we do?’ He answered, ‘Whoever has two shirts must share with the one who has none, and whoever has food must do the same.'”

• James 2:14-17 - “My brothers and sisters, what good is it if people say they have faith but do nothing to show it? Claiming to have faith can’t save anyone, can it? Imagine a brother or sister who is naked and never has enough food to eat. What if one of you said, ‘Go in peace! Stay warm! Have a nice meal!?’ What good is it if you don’t actually give them what their body needs? In the same way, faith is dead when it doesn’t result in faithful activity.”

• Hebrews 6:10 - “God isn’t unjust so that he forgets your efforts and the love you have shown for his name’s sake when you served and continue to serve God’s holy people.”

• Matthew 10:8 - “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those with skin diseases, and throw out demons. You received without having to pay. Therefore, give without demanding payment.”

• Deuteronomy 15:11 - “Poor persons will never disappear from the earth. That’s why I’m giving you this command: you must open your hand generously to your fellow Israelites, to the needy among you, and to the poor who live with you in your land.”

• Proverbs 11:25 - “Generous persons will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”

• Deuteronomy 22:4 - “Don’t just watch your fellow Israelite’s donkey or ox fall down in the road and do nothing about it. You must help your fellow Israelite get the animal up again.”

• Luke 6:38 - “Give, and it will be given to you. A good portion — packed down, firmly shaken, and overflowing — will fall into your lap. The portion you give will determine the portion you receive in return.”

• 1 John 3:17 - “But if someone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but refuses to help — how can the love of God dwell in a person like that?”

• Proverbs 22:9 - “Happy are generous people, because they give some of their food to the poor.”

• Luke 12:33 - “Sell your possessions and give to those in need. Make for yourselves wallets that don’t wear out — a treasure in heaven that never runs out. No thief comes near there, and no moth destroys.”

• Acts 20:35 - “In everything I have shown you that, by working hard, we must help the weak. In this way we remember the Lord Jesus’ words: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”

• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 - “So continue encouraging each other and building each other up, just like you are doing already.”

• Ephesians 4:32 - “Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving to each other, in the same way God forgave you in Christ.”

• Leviticus 25:35 - “If one of your fellow Israelites faces financial difficulty and is in a shaky situation with you, you must assist them as you would an immigrant or foreign guest so that they can survive among you.”

• Proverbs 29:7 - “The righteous know the rights of the poor, but the wicked don’t understand.”

• Isaiah 25:4 - “You have been a refugee for the poor, a refugee for the needy in distress, a hiding place from the storm, a shade from the heat. When the breath of tyrants is like a winter storm.”

• Isaiah 58:10 - “If you open your heart to the hungry, and provide abundantly for those who are afflicted, your light will shine in the darkness, and your gloom will be like the noon.”

• Mark 10:21 - “Jesus looked at him carefully and loved him. He said, ‘You are lacking one thing. Go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor. Then you will have treasure in heaven. And

  come, follow me.”

• Galations 6:9 - “Let’s not get tired of doing good, because in time we’ll have a harvest if we don’t give up.”

• Isaiah 1:17 - “Learn to do good. Seek justice: help the oppressed; defend the orphan; plead for the window.”

That’s just some of them. Seems to me that God really wants you to help change the world. Are you willing?

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Quotes

• “I love that we are able to pick up trash and help keep the world clean, I just hate that we HAVE to do it.” - My 8 year old during a trash pick up escapade

• Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead

  
  

  

  
  

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Pictures

There are so many ways to do this!!!!

My 8 year old recruited friends from the neighborhood. This particular trip was our neighborhood only. I found a cool trellis in the woods near our house. It’s in my backyard now. Recycle!

We invented a new contraption with our old wheelbarrow. We even have a trash claw. I use that mostly. My old body can’t stand the bending like she can. BTW we use gloves too. And she knows what not to pick up. Luckily glass and medication are the only things she hasn’t been able to touch.