So I was watching Ellen today, yes one of the beauties of working at home is that I too get to enjoy daytime television. Anyway, the topic at hand was Earth Day. After watching a few of the guests and listening to the commentary taking place, I began to ruminate on the subject. I am a huge supporter of Earth Day and believe in the ideals surrounding it.

Earth Day is something that seems to become more and more about how we live as opposed to what is going on with the planet currently. The reason for this is simple: the way we live impacts the state of the planet more than any other animal, insect, disease, or natural disaster.

It comes down to living right. Now I am not here to tell you how to live, merely suggestions that I think most will agree with. It seems to me that much of the world has lost its compassion and thoughtfulness for others and other things.

The more technology increases the more self-absorbed we become, the less patience we have, the more opinionated we are and so on and so on. So, with today marking a day to be conscious of the footprint we leave on the earth, I thought it good to talk about things we can do that will impact the world more than you, me, or anyone can imagine.

Living Right

Compassion – Be compassionate to your fellow man. Consider your actions daily and how they impact others. Even simple things as how our actions inconvenience others when they don’t really need to if we adjust how we do things a little.

Random Acts of Kindness – Do things for others randomly and without direct personal benefit. This doesn’t mean don’t benefit from this, it provides wonderful benefits, but the benefits are how you may feel by doing this. Also, do things for others in a way that you cannot even receive recognition. This way you are not seeking attention, praise or anything else; it is a self-less act.

Don’t Litter – Why is this one so difficult for people. Just pick up after yourself, find a trash can, hold it until you get home. With all the waste we produce you think people would at least be more mindful of where it goes.

Listen – When those you love (or even those you don’t) have something they really need to talk about, put your own cares, concerns, and worries down for a minute and just listen to the person objectively. You will find the more you do this, the more others are apt to do it for you when you need it.

Be Aware – Be aware of who you are, what you are doing, how much you consume, you level of waste, everything. Just be aware. It seems more and more people walk around with blinders on but they blinders blind them as to their own actions.

Admit Mistakes and Wrong Doings – We all make them, we all mistreat others, but most of us are reluctant to step and say, “Yes, I was wrong.” Make it a habit. You will feel better and so will others around you.

The more you can strive to do these things the better place the world is. And as a result the better we will treat the world. Earth Day starts at home and in your heart.