“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
As we recognize Dr. King this month, that question reminds us to notice neighbors who may be struggling quietly and to act, even when the need is not obvious.
Often, need starts in silence. Suffering can happen quietly before we ever see it. Hunger behind a closed door. Homelessness that starts with a job loss or an unexpected bill. Abuse that stays hidden until a survivor is ready to reach out for help.
And just as often, the response to suffering can show up in plain view. I see compassion show up when neighbors host food drives, when donors give what they can, when volunteers donate their time. I see it at CRC when a domestic violence hotline call is answered with care, when a family finds safe shelter, when counseling creates space for healing after trauma.
This week, many schools are participating in The Great Kindness Challenge, inviting students and families to practice simple acts that build a culture of kindness. In that spirit and in honor of Dr. King, I invite you to join in choosing one small act. Here are some ideas:
- Share CRC resources with someone who may be experiencing hunger, homelessness or hurt
- Invite one friend or coworker to learn about CRC and join us for a monthly tour
- Make a gift that helps sustain CRC’s essential services
- Donate items or shop at our resale stores to support CRC’s programs
- Nominate a changemaker for the CRC Community Impact Awards (nominations due January 31)
When a community shows compassion in the open, it becomes easier for someone who may be suffering in silence to find a path to help. Our community cares about neighbors who are hungry, experiencing homelessness or hurting under the hand of abuse. This year, we are preparing for more need, and together we will be here to meet our neighbors with dignity and care.
I invite you to start with one small act and let it grow.
