Quietly reaching out and forging a connection and creating change.

On a recent visit to Cedar Key, Florida, my wife I stumbled upon a rusted sign nailed to the front of a dilapidated wood bungalow.

On this site in 1897 nothing happened.

I have used the image often in talks about collaboration and community sustainability.

Is it possible for “nothing to happen”?  If nothing happens, doesn’t something happen because of what did not take place? Or if something does happen and it is not visible, then did anything happen?

Social media allows us to state our opinions and address the views of others. Network and cable news allow followers to opine. This provides multiple forums for us to take a stand and publicly declare our core values and condemn others when they cross the line in the sand we have drawn. And, likewise, others do the same.

If you choose not to join the crowd with a “me-too” post, does that mean you have done nothing? Does it mean you do not have an opinion or hesitate to take a side? Does it mean you have chosen neutrality or to fly under the radar?  Or worse, does it mean you condone the questionable behavior?

Not necessarily.

Our history is replete with brave souls who took courageous action for good at grave risk to themselves. They stood and acted in a public way. For that, we have a great deal to be thankful. A great deal.

A person, as well, can fight discrimination and bigotry one simple, quiet act at a time.  She doesn’t need to “post” the action to be proactive and take a stand.

Quietly reaching out and forging a connection and creating change.

Few may see or hear of the act.

But it makes a difference to that person and the lives that person will then touch.

And, you make a difference.

Video Recommendation for the Week:

One simple act of kindness at a time.

Make it an inspiring week and H.T.R.B. as needed.

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(c) 2017. Steve Piscitelli. All rights reserved.