One of the dominating stories in the news this week is the ravaging fires in California. We have seen and heard about real devastation and disaster. Hundreds of thousands have lost their homes together with everything they own. A million people have been evacuated and the financial damage has reached more than a billion dollars.

Crisis brings out the best in people and reveals the real good, compassionate and kind side of human beings. The infinite spark of purity and goodness emerges in time of trouble. People pull together to do and give whatever they can to support those in need, with a spirit of true unity. We read amazing stories of people extending themselves in ways beyond imagination to lend a hand, showing real concern for people they don't even know. We witnessed the same phenomenon at Katrina, the Lebanon war and other disasters.

There is a Jewish axiom that we can learn and draw inspiration from everything that we see and experience. The devastation should not only be a shocking news item, and the stories of support should not just be something that we admire. We should use this as a reminder that we can always act with compassion, concern and kindness. We don't have to wait for a world crisis.

There are small fires all around us. There is the neighbor who is going through a rough time with his/her relationship and needs a listening ear. There is a friend who is experiencing financial trouble and needs support. There is that guy who sits next to us in the synagogue who hasn't shown up for a while and would love a quick call to find out if he/she is ok. There is the stranger on the street that seems lonely and could do with a nice smile and a warm greeting.

Small gestures are very powerful and go a long way. Small acts of compassion benefit others, make us better human beings and bring positive energy to our surrounding. Let's start today by spending an extra five minutes helping someone, greeting a lonely stranger or making a telephone call just to show that we care. Small acts of kindness are contagious, strengthen our relationships and reach much further than we ever imagine.

Back Back