In the midst of colossal change and loss on a collective level, it’s understandable to have occasional feelings of helplessness. We are being pushed hard to quickly adapt, thoroughly let go, and create new solutions to historic problems. The pressure is on.

Most of us have learned the foundation block of self-care through the increasing energies, implementing stronger boundaries, accepting more gracefully what (and whom) is departing, and allowing for the time needed to gain clarity and make deeper connections with our souls and source. We’ve learned to increase compassion for ourselves and others.

As we go forward in our personal commitments and service, one of the greatest contributions we can make are generous and frequent acts of kindness. We may not know how another is doing, but we can be sure everyone is challenged in some way. We can recognize collective tension, fear, and strain and its impact on humanity.

An act of kindness is a catalyst for transcendence. The simplest act of recognition of another can be the demonstration that gives them enough hope to keep going, heals the wound of neglect or confirms a needed response that increases faith. It offers a reflection of our inherent nature and conscious awareness of our interconnectedness, which is a powerful reconnect to the greater truth of our capability.

A genuine act of kindness can include material offerings, but does not require them. It can take only a moment, or last the length of time it takes to listen actively. When you feel compelled to want to do more but cannot see how, look to others for how many acts of kindness you can offer in the day. There will be plenty of opportunities, and every act of kindness weaves a stronger connectivity that strengthens the whole. What benefits another, will also feed your soul, ease your mind, and fill your heart.

And don’t forget to include yourself in acts of kindness. Judgment, shame, and punishment are the old paradigm and we will grow exponentially with the fertilizer of kindness into the new paradigms created by greater compassion, kindness, and love.