How I Can Change the World

Many years ago, my little sister, who was about 10 at the time, entered an oratory competition to earn scholarship money.  The topic was ‘How I Can Change the World.’  She wrote a beautiful and simple speech about random acts of kindness.  How she can help an elderly or pregnant lady get their groceries in their car or holding a door open for someone with their hands full.   The rest of the speeches were about wanting to stop drunk drivers, end wars, and other political topics that were obviously written by parents or teachers.   But to me, they totally missed the mark.  The topic was ‘how can I change the world.’  None of the other speeches specifically said, “I can do this myself.”   She didn’t win her scholarship; I don’t even remember which speech won.

To this day, my little sister’s speech inspires me to be just a little bit kinder and thoughtful of others.   I make it a point to say, “Thank you” to whoever helps me whether it be at work or at home.

Just the other day, I was at the grocery store putting my cart back in the cart corral when I noticed a wallet in one of the carts.   Even though I had ice cream melting in my trunk, I took the time to walk the wallet back into the store and give it to a manager.   That one simple act, I did change the world for someone.

Kelly Ammann

Project Manager