The world, I’m afraid, is in dire need of healing. At times, it seems as though it may be beyond repair. With the increasing division and seemingly growing comfort with hatred, it’s getting more and more challenging to see the light through the darkness. If this is where you find yourself, know that you are not alone. However, let this serve as a reminder that there is, indeed, light.
But first, a story.
An aging farmer had three sons who worked his land. Knowing he wouldn’t be around forever, he gathered them and said, “I love you equally. To decide who will inherit the farm, I have a challenge: whoever can fill the barn the most will win.”
The eldest son went first. He filled the barn floor with animals—cows, chickens, sheep, and pigs. The barn was packed.
“Well done,” said the father. “But there’s still space up to the ceiling.”
The second son piled bundled wheat high to the rafters. The barn looked full from floor to roof.
“Amazing effort,” said the father. “But there are still gaps between the bundles.”
The youngest son brought his father to the barn last. It was completely empty. Confused, the father stepped inside as his son closed the doors, leaving them in darkness.
Without a word, the youngest lit a candle. Instantly, light filled every corner of the barn.
The father smiled and embraced him, for he had undoubtedly won the challenge.
Of course, this story represents the impact of even the smallest light in the darkness.
Right now, it may seem that things feel dark. We are in the depths of a long, grey winter, waiting patiently (or impatiently) for spring to arrive. Politics are harsh and divisive. Discrimination is blatant. Social media forums feel like battlegrounds.
Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world, is a fundamental Jewish principle that represents a responsibility to make the world a better place through philanthropy, social justice, and overall kindness. It’s not about simply fixing damage done, but about actively trying to improve the current state of affairs.
Helping others, of course, is good for the world. It makes us feel good to know that we’ve caused positive change, big or small. Sometimes, the simplest effort can make the largest impact. But did you know that helping others is literally good for you?
It’s been proven that when we help others through acts of kindness, our body releases oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin hormones. It even has a name - helper’s high! We receive instant benefits as a result of the feelings of human connection, motivation and reward and an overall more stable mood. It lowers our cortisol (stress hormone) levels and we feel more regulated.
Among many other things, such as strengthening interpersonal relationships and building confidence, it also pulls us out of isolation. Typically, when things go dark, we go inwards. We self-isolate. Helping others gently shifts attention outward and reminds you that you aren’t alone.
Acts can be simple - holding a door, offering a compliment, sending a “thinking of you note” or “just because” flowers, or covering the cost of a coffee for the next patron. They can also be grander gestures - a weekly volunteer commitment, taking an elderly neighbour to get groceries, organizing a meal train for a family in need, mentor a young person in your field, donating blood or offering services for free.
The Legacy Project (www.legacyproject.ca) was created as a source of light in the community. After years of sitting on boards and fundraising, my husband and I had determined that there was a space to be made that not only raised money, but established a truly inclusive community. This year, we are putting on our second show (Vol. 2), benefitting the Reena Foundation.
Reena Foundation raises funds to improve the lives of people with Autism and other developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, and other diverse health needs. Not only did our first show (Vol. 1) raise over $60,000 to support their summer camp program, but the Reena All-Star Choir, made up of over 20 Reena residents, joined our cast and performed on stage. The choir, hand-in-hand and intertwined with the cast of The Legacy Project, broke every barrier and boundary of inclusion. It was deeply emotional, humbling and inspiring to not only be a part of this show, but to have created the space for it. The ultimate helper’s high.
Not only did it feel great to raise money for an incredible cause, but the community we built while doing so was priceless. Every cast and leadership team member has a family, career and commitments that all take a bit of a back seat when rehearsals are happening. While the work and preparation is beyond a labour of love, it is all worth it - every single second of rehearsing, planning, fundraising, marketing, meeting, designing was worth the joy it brought to the community. If you want to catch this year’s show and witness the magic for yourself - find us at www.legacyproject.ca for more information.
Let this serve as your encouragement to be the light - however big or small - for someone else. In this darkness, we all have an opportunity to bring light to others. In doing so, we receive so much light back in return.
Sending so much light to you all.
With love,
Michelle
We’d love to hear from you! Please send us your suggestions for future articles. And if you’re a writer, please see our writer’s submissions page for details.
