Making the world a kinder place should be a collective goal that we all strive to achieve. No matter what religion you are, what country you’re from, or your economic status we can all be kinder to each other.
By creating a kinder world we are creating a better future for younger generations. By creating a kinder world we become a stronger world. By creating a kinder world we will be a happier world.
But sometimes making the world a kinder place can feel like a daunting task. Often, people wonder how they can make an impact. We don’t realize, though, that kindness starts with a belief that everyone deserves love and respect.
If you doubt the contribution you can make to the world, take a look at some of these influential people to get inspired and see what a difference an individual can make.
Princess Diana
Princess Diana played an extraordinary role in tearing down the stigma surrounding several diseases like AIDs, leprosy, and cancer. She blazed the trail for the progress of the people affected by these terrible diseases by hugging and holding hands with the people she visited.
She made herself relatable and gave off the air of being everyone’s friend. Her kindness left a lasting legacy and impression on the entire world. Through her kind acts, she inspired others to end ignorance and learn instead.
Bob Marley
Bob Marley changed the world through his music by putting a spotlight on the global community of impoverished people. He introduced the world to the discrimination and corruption these people face but also shared their spirit. These communities may have been marginalized, but their unity and attitude inspired the rest of the world.
He didn’t just spread kindness through his music either. He was well known in his home country of Jamaica for opening his home up to the community and providing food and shelter for those in need.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the most inspiring, influential kind people and for good reason. He led a movement of peace that not only transformed the US but the entire world as well.
MLK brought the atrocities that affected the African American community to the global stage, and he sought to change these injustices through peaceful protest and non-violence.
Through his leadership, the world learned that our differences don’t have to separate us. Rather, they should bring us together. He showed us that when people come together in love and celebrate their diversity we could change the world.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt was truly ahead of her time. As an advocate for women’s rights, African and Asian American rights, and helping refugees she spoke out about issues in a time when no one else would.
Her kindness towards victims of discrimination helped these people have a voice and gain traction in their movement toward equality.
Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela showed the world that forgiveness is one of the most powerful tools to create change in the world. He helped abolish segregation in his country of South Africa and led the largest forgiveness movement the world has seen.
Nelson Mandela’s vision of a place where people of all colors can live together in harmony inspired the entire world and to follow in his footsteps of equality and forgiveness.
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey became an empowering figure for women to look up to. She has also become a shining example of generosity and kindness. Besides inspiring women around the world to become more confident and empowered, she has also done a great deal of philanthropy in her life.
From opening a school for girls in South Africa to operating multiple charities, and giving money to her audience so they can donate to charity, she has proved that helping others should be a part of success.
John Lennon
John Lennon was a huge believer in peace and love, but it went beyond society’s idea of hippie culture. He was a strong anti-war campaigner and spread the word about kindness in one of the most chaotic times in recent history.
In his song “Imagine”, John Lennon shared his vision with the world and invited others to look at life from a different perspective. A perspective grounded in love, acceptance, and togetherness.
So how do you feel now?
I bet you’re feeling ready to change the world now. I know I am!
The beautiful thing is that these are just a few examples of the many people who changed the world through their kindness. All of these people paved the way for a better future; a future that we need to continue to build upon.
You don’t have to be a princess or famous musician to spread love either. Use these individuals as inspiration, and leave your own unique trail of kindness. A small act of kindness is just like a drop of water in a lake and its effects will create a chain reaction that everyone will feel.