July is Mandela month where we as South Africans honour Madiba’s life by taking action to make the world a better place. And, quoting Madiba himself: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived, it is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”

So yes, 67 minutes on the 18^th of July is an amazing initiative to raise awareness for those less fortunate, but what can we do to make a lasting difference? We’re all busy, and the reasons why we are so busy are definitely legitimate, but we often lose sight of one of the most beautiful purposes we have: our call to love. A wise man once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”  Turns out that the more we empty ourselves, the fuller we get!

Being part of something bigger might be one of the best things we can do, not only for others but also for ourselves. Research has shown that kinder people live longer, happier and healthier lives. It is easier to temporarily forget about your own problems when you shift the focus on helping others.

So, where to start? How can each of us make a lasting difference in the lives of others? The good news is that even if you don’t have the finances to write checks to all of your favourite charities, you can still give back, and if you make a commitment, it instantly becomes a priority. Positive change begins with small actions. By giving a little of your time and creating awareness about something that you’re passionate about, could absolutely have a huge impact and change the world around you.

It is easier than ever to find ways to be of service. There is so much need out there.

We have a few ideas to get you started:

• Research something you care about and share your findings on social media to create awareness and change.
• Step outside your neighbourhood and do a street clean up.
• Visit a children’s home or the elderly and read to them, alternatively pack some snack boxes and fill their day with sunshine.
• Donate blood or become an organ donor and change a life forever.
• Pack care packages consisting of a toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, soap and cream, and hand them out at a shelter for the homeless.
• Ask your place of employment to start an initiative to give back to the community.
• Add a can or two of dog or cat food to your grocery list and drop it off at an animal shelter.
• Smile and say good morning to a perfect stranger every day. Giving should be unconditional with no strings attached.

Thankyou to all the angels of this country that dedicate their lives to giving to others who has so little.

Source: www.brandsouthafrica.com, www.parliament.gov.za, www.scripps.org, www.babble.com, www.mandeladay.com, www.goc.za, www.dilawrifoundation.ca, www.katecashman.com, mentalfloss.com, pursuit.unimelb.edu.au, www.psychologytoday.com, www.forbes.com, www.helpguide.org, health.clevelandclinic.org, www.health.harvard.edu, www.vibescount.com, tinybuddha.com, books,google.co.za,  www.wisebread.com, educonnect.co.za

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.