I like to entertain the question, What good will you do today?, when I wake up--it's a good question that makes you think and rights your direction. Yet, it's not a simple question particularly at a time when we are bombarded with opportunities to help out as well as news of problems that require solutions--solutions that rely on good work from all of us.
So, as I think about good work, I'm thinking about the categories that work falls into.
Taking care of self
If we don't take good care of ourselves, it will be almost impossible to do the good work possible. If we're tired, unhealthy and mired in trouble, we'll not have the time, energy or outlook to do good work. So, when we think about good work, we have to do what it takes to be healthy, energized, aware, and positively ready to do our part. That said, however, some take the self-care call to an extreme level leaving no time to help anyone else--this exaggeration is not healthy or positive, we need to be there for one another too.
Take care of friends and family
I'm sure that we've all noticed situations when people are out there helping everyone, but not making the time to help their family members and friends. We have to make time to do what we can to support our family members and friends in ways that help them to live good lives. It's not always easy to know exactly how to help one another, but there are ways that we can be there for each other--ways that enrich lives in significant ways.
Take care of your community
For many today, taking care of self, friends and family is about all we think we can do--life is busy and time is short, but it remains essential that we find ways to support the communities we live in with positive contribution. In order to care well for the community, it is essential that we are informed about what's happening and what we can do. To be informed, we have to read and listen to the news, attend community meetings and join positive community groups.
As I think about the good we can do, I see many areas where I can uplift my contribution in the days to come. I'll keep working to do this--to find those activities where I can contribute well. Onward.