We don't have to move mountains

Musician Nick Cave on the power of small actions:

"The everyday human gesture is always a heartbeat away from the miraculous. Remember that ultimately we make things happen through our actions, way beyond our understanding or intention; that our seemingly small ordinary human acts have untold consequences; that what we do in this world means something; that we are not nothing; and that our most quotidian human actions by their nature burst the seams of our intent and spill meaningfully and radically through time and space, changing everything.

Our deeds, no matter how insignificant they may feel, are replete with meaning, and of vast consequence, and that they constantly impact upon the unfolding story of the world, whether we know it or not."

I recently had an experience that aligns with Nick Cave’s perspective on small actions. Andrea is a client I hadn’t seen in a few weeks because she’s pursuing her Master’s Degree while working full-time; needless to say, her schedule is slammed. I sent her a text to see how things were going for her. “I’m not very good,” she responded. “I’m really struggling in these final weeks of presentations and finals. I have no time for myself.”

“I know you’re doing your best,” I responded. “How can I help?” Andrea replied, “Your text is very helpful. It’s a reminder that this is only temporary, and I am almost done. Your message also reminds me of my support system. Thank you.”

The simple act of encouragement and offering her support brightened her spirits and brought her finish line back into view, and this brightened my spirits, too. A phrase coined by one of my mentors came to mind, “Small hinges swing big doors”—small actions can have a big impact.

My wish for us all is that we mindfully regard our actions as powerful, with the capacity to do good that extends beyond our perception, and that we open ourselves to opportunities to make an impact. The prospect of routinely injecting positivity into the world sounds very appealing.