Summer is finally here and the holidays are on their way!
It is the perfect time to relax, hang out with your friends and enjoy lots of BBQs, but it is also a great time to make a difference! With no school or college, you probably have a little bit of extra time in the summer months, so why not do something worthwhile?
You could start with yourself and focusing on making a difference in your own life and your own home. Whether it is starting a journal to note your feelings, taking time for some self-care or maybe starting recycling at home! It sounds so simple but having a quick ten-minute research on what materials go in the right bin can make a massive difference to the environment. You could also make a difference by using less plastic, to help reduce pollution in the oceans, by using a reusable water bottle or choosing paper straws over plastic.
It is also very simple to spread the word about different campaigns from home, via social media, so if there is something you feel passionately about use this extra time to raise awareness about it!
There are lots of opportunities to make a difference on a wider scale too. You could take some time to volunteer at a local summer event with your friends, or volunteer with different activities at your church that you might normally not be able to help at due to school or other commitments.
If you are feeling creative then you could do some baking and take it to your local hospital, police station or church to thank them for their hard work! What a lovely way that would be to spend an afternoon, and it would be such a blessing to those who receive it!
If sports are more your thing then perhaps signing up to a sponsored run, walk or cycle might be the best way to challenge yourself and raise some money for your favourite charity! No matter your favourite activities or the scale of your gesture, these acts of kindness will definitely make a difference this summer.
Hopefully this helps you find some inspiration to make a difference this summer, and have some fun whilst doing it!
In the Bible we are reminded “Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” – Hebrews 13:16. This highlights how important it is to make a difference with our time – no matter how big or small.
