how have YOU changed the world?

At this time of year many of us celebrate the birth of one person that changed the world in matchless ways. As I look at my life, I have to wonder how I am changing the world. Someone once told me that when you walk into a room you can either take away or add to the room. I think this stands true in the world. Each day we have the potential to change the world. It is up to us to decide how we are going to do that. We can either assist the world in its downward spiral, or we can revolutionize and leave this earth better than when we entered.

As usual, I am going to be referring to a movie today – “Pay It Forward.” This movie is more meaningful and powerful than any movie I have seen in a long time. One small boy changed the world by performing a big act of service for three different people. This act of service had “to be something really big. Something they can’t do by themselves, so [he would] do it for them. Then they would do something for three people… It gets big really fast.” Let’s be honest. Sometimes, life truly stinks. It is easy to get caught up in the frustration of unjust teachers, the constant threat of pollution destroying our world, or the discouragement of a lonely Friday night. But despite those things, we cannot give up trying to change the world for the better. Changing the world is hard. It “requires an extreme act of faith in the goodness of people.” If we decide to give up, “everybody loses.” Everybody. We have a chance to win, but that chance evaporates if we surrender. Although keeping the faith in ourselves and others may be hard, it is the only thing that can save us from this stinky world. So, in an act of faith, let us do something for someone else and hope they “pay it forward.”

And that’s what Jenny thinks.

Sing

As inhabitants of the world, we often add needless complexities to our Christmas celebrations. Someone has even written a book on how to simplify Christmas. Sad, I know (but seriously, my mom is reading it). I was lucky enough to watch my first Christmas movie of the season at 12:00 AM on December 1^st. Yes. I am a devout Christmas celebrator. I watched one of my all time favorites – Elf. Aka Will Ferrell at his very best. I learned that there is no better way to simplify our Holiday seasons than by following Buddy the Elf's example. He enveloped himself in the simple joys of life, and shared his appreciation for life with everyone he met. It was through the simple things – snuggling, syrup, singing, running through a revolving door – that Buddy found his boundless happiness. I think Buddy the Elf had it exactly right –

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”

Now, some may believe that the only way to truly obey Buddy’s counsel is to burst out into song wherever you go. Although that is preferable and extremely entertaining, it is unnecessary. We have so many other ways we can “sing” this Christmas season – a chat with a long-lost-friend, a thank you note, smiling at a stranger, helping someone with a meal, cleaning someone’s dishes, etc. Not only did Buddy's voice ring loud and clear, but also his smile, service, and most important his LOVE. It is my belief that everyone can grasp that same happiness this season. I know that if I keep Buddy’s spirit close to my heart, I can and will make a difference this Christmas season.

And that’s what Jenny thinks.