Mickey Z. — World News Trust
November 2, 2020
When it comes to food shopping, I make small daily trips to one of the three supermarkets closest to my home. Being what the employees might call a “regular,” I always put in the effort to make my interactions meaningful. I introduce myself to the cashiers and — in the case of the college students — learn something about their studies. This enables me to ask more specific questions than “how are ya?”
I greet them with a “good morning,” ask about their lives, thank them for packing my purchases, and wish them a great day as I leave. Without fail, the folks behind me on line take notice. As I walk away from the counter, I always hear the next person offer their own “good morning” in a cheerful voice.
This is one of my superpowers.
(Photo: Alicen Grey)
It’s also one of your superpowers. The events of 2020 have been enough to leave anyone feeling powerless. But, fear not, you have within you the ability to make someone’s day — or, at least, someone’s hour — with just a few words and a smile (even while wearing a mask). You can also influence someone’s mood simply by not using your social media platforms to sow division or share bad news. And here’s the big one: You can be kind without first finding out if the other person agrees with you on issues pertaining to politics, religion, etc.
All this is possible once you accept the reality that there’s a huge difference between agreement and understanding. Even when your opinions run counter to another, you can work to understand that person’s experience. There is no need to surrender your own stories. Your position will not be compromised. It is not a sign of weakness to validate an opposing viewpoint without agreeing with it.
This just in: Different viewpoints can coexist without canceling each other out. Recognizing this fact creates room for mutual respect to blossom. To understand and recognize someone’s point of view — even when you disagree — is one of your most potent superpowers.
A passerby takes a selfie with foam sculpture depictions of President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden in Fort Lauderdale, FL. (South Florida Sun-Sentinel via AP)
Slowing down to embrace patience, balance, and mindfulness is a proven path toward self-awareness. It helps reveal your hidden wisdom, the wisdom to see and accept things as they already are at this moment. It’s an innate skill always at our disposal — regardless of who wins this ugly, contentious election. You get to vote with a ballot once a year. But you can exercise your superpowers as often as you choose.
Mickey Z. can be found here. He is also the founder of Helping Homeless Women - NYC, offering direct relief to women on the streets of New York City. To help him grow this project, CLICK HERE and make a donation right now. And please spread the word!
