How Small Steps become Big Change

by Brooj, Open Circle student

Ever since I was little, I always wanted to do big things in the world and see the world become better and better for everyone and everything in it. That ambition still stands strong in me. Growing up, however, I realized that sometimes it can be pretty overwhelming thinking about all the things that are wrong in our world and the many different issues that deeply affect many people every day. When Open Circle came into my life in 2020 (when I was in my first year of my undergrad), I was delighted to see the many different opportunities to get meaningfully involved in the community. Marybeth and Jeff also make it very easy to find ways to give back to others, not only to help other students but also the city as a whole! The efficiency of the system set up in Open Circle made me realize that creating positive change and making a difference in the world is possible! I don’t feel as overwhelmed about wanting to do the things I always wanted to for the sake of the world and humanity now. My involvement with Open Circle has not only allowed me to contribute to the community but has also led to significant personal growth, enhancing my leadership skills and empathy.

I have not only worked towards bettering the lives of vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and low-income families but have also been able to tend to the environment with many other like-minded students and individuals. I love how this community allows me to bring goodness into the world and other people’s lives and do what I love, such as caring for the Earth and the environment. The Open Circle community has shown me that I should never underestimate the impact of my seemingly small efforts. It’s often these “small” efforts that create a “ripple effect” in the community and actually amount to so much goodness, helping others in ways that we can’t even imagine sometimes! Now I never miss an opportunity to help someone or give back to others, no matter how big or small the act of kindness is!

Open Circle has made me more open-minded and empathetic towards everyone around me. I love the person I see and feel myself becoming. I don’t know where I would have been or who I would have become if it wasn’t for the light and love this community has brought into my life. I hope that my passionate involvement and devotion to my Open Circle family can inspire others in my life and beyond because I believe we all have it in ourselves to make the world and everything in it a better place for all ❤️