Chapter 1: The State of Humanity

How much of your humanity remains intact?

“Not today, Lorisa. I’m too exhausted to go out. Let’s do it tomorrow.”

“Okay, see you then,” Lorisa replied before ending the call.

I quickly blended a smoothie made of strawberries, pineapple, and apple—my favorite energy booster. Soon after, I fell into a deep sleep. Around 2 AM, I awoke feeling hungry.

Searching the fridge for leftovers, I found nothing. My groceries were depleted, leaving only bread, a raw egg, and some milk. Cooking felt like an insurmountable task, so I settled for bread and juice before drifting back into sleep.

This has become my routine. I rarely have leftovers, and my grocery shopping is limited to a few items weekly. I prefer it this way to avoid waste if I unexpectedly leave town. Unfortunately, when life gets hectic, some vegetables rot, and I have to toss them out. Yet, hunger is the least of my worries.

Lorisa and I had decided to donate some of our used clothes and food items to a homeless shelter. It’s been over a month since we made that plan, and I still haven’t sorted through my belongings. Each time Lorisa called, I offered the same excuse: I was too tired. While I genuinely was exhausted, I also knew I was neglecting my commitment.

My business audits occur in March, and the paperwork for the previous tax year always keeps me busy. I shouldn’t have agreed to a plan I had no intention of fulfilling.

Lorisa even offered to come over and help me organize my items, but that would mean prioritizing the unimportant over the meaningful, so I politely declined. I promised I’d tackle it over the weekend, but the weekend came and went without action.

What could possibly hold more significance than aiding someone in need?

That’s a question I’ve grappled with, trying to justify my inaction with a million excuses. Yet, nothing outweighs the joy of seeing someone smile as they receive your kindness.

In light of that, I left work early today. Sitting in my wardrobe, I began sifting through boxes covered in dust and cobwebs, sorting through items to give away.

Many people, myself included, have become self-absorbed and indifferent. We often focus on trivial pursuits, neglecting the suffering of others. Our lives are consumed by the chase for the next big achievement, leaving little time to care for one another.

The world has turned chaotic and overwhelming, leading many to struggle both mentally and physically. We face natural disasters, wars, famine, and economic crises, compounded by a troubling rise in youth suicides due to depression from unattainable life goals.

While some suffer from hunger and deprivation of basic needs, others chase global recognition and wealth, mistakenly believing it will lead to happiness.

True happiness springs from our actions. Simple acts of kindness can bring joy. It requires only a touch of compassion and a reduction in selfishness, much like my friend Lorisa exemplifies.

Lorisa understands what it means to have less. Growing up primarily in foster care until she was adopted by a loving couple shaped her outlook on life's challenges. Instead of harboring resentment towards her biological parents, she chose forgiveness and gratitude for the opportunities her adoptive parents provided.

Without her foster parents, Lorisa might have led a bitter life filled with grievances. They taught her to empathize with others' struggles and to appreciate even the smallest blessings.

Earning around $2400 per month as a caregiver, Lorisa also volunteers at a rehabilitation center for children with special needs. Despite her modest income, she donates to a nonprofit organization that sends relief supplies to impoverished countries and contributes food and clothing to the homeless.

When discussing selflessness, Lorisa immediately comes to mind. I admire her courage and empathy. While I may never reach her level of kindness, I strive daily to be more humane and less selfish.

When was the last time you extended a hand of kindness? Did you bring a smile to someone today? How did that feel?

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Chapter 2: Acts of Kindness

In this inspiring performance, the message revolves around the importance of kindness and the impact it can have on the world.

This official audio track emphasizes the significance of compassion and connection in a world that often feels disconnected.