Editorial: Let’s start a trend of positivity

Recently, every time I enter into a social media platform, there is a new “trend” taking place. Whether it’s a dance routine or a challenge, the desire to be part of an acceptable group and become recognized quickly makes its rounds before it fades away.

So, how about we make a trend that influences positivity among all of us?

Have we had trends like that before? Yes, we have. We have had “pay it forward”, but that quickly became a revenge trend where a person would buy a meal for someone else and then show the receipt and keep both meals. Our positive trends and desires to do good are quickly being spun and reversed in an environment that negatively affects all of us.

While I’m only one person, I want to just start a positivity trend. Maybe a compliment or two that will show everybody that we can live in a world despite our differences. I can’t thank readers (both online and in the paper) enough for continuing to support us. I can’t thank our advertisers who continue to show faith in us as we pump out news to two communities that total nearly 30,000 people. It makes a difference.

So, as a trend, just begin to support each other with a compliment. Say hello today because we can’t see a person’s smile because of a mask. Thank somebody when you receive an item or make a purchase. The balance of positive and negative vibes does exist.

Share a story, make a phone call, cook a meal, or leave a tip. It makes a difference. We are living in a world of selfishness and survival. And believe it or not, that’s not a bad thing to an extent. We all want to reach our goals and live happy, but we must realize that there are others who do not have that benefit.

Let’s be honest, there were times in the past where we could help a stranded motorist who needed a tire changed or give money to somebody standing on a sidewalk holding a cup out. But now, we do deal with seeds of doubt because of scammers and those who target the less fortunate. So now, let’s start a trend verbally to show our thankfulness and let it transpire into a physical manifestation to assist others.

As a proverb says, in order to pluck a rose, you must respect the thorns. Let’s respect each other and bloom as one beautiful garden to impact society in better ways.