What if the reality we believe in is the one we’ll create? It’s said that the more we think and work toward a goal, the more we repeat our “truth,” whether it’s good or bad, until it becomes our reality. We are writing our own lives, day by day.
Over the past year, it seems like there has been an increase in trauma, bad actions, and bad people thrown in our faces. At 46, my perspective is different than when I was 16 or 20. With experience and knowledge, we adapt, elevate ourselves, and also feel the weight of the world sometimes. In the face of such immense sadness and negativity, it’s easy to feel powerless.
But what if we realized that the smallest positive action can create the greatest good and even miracles? I still believe in the “butterfly effect.” Recently, I received feedback on some of my actions that truly gave me chills of happiness. If you need reassurance that your positive actions matter, know that they do. We can’t always see the proof in person, but they make a difference. A simple “hi,” a smile, or lifting someone’s bag can change the course of their day.
I am so moved and overwhelmed by the resilience and courage of so many people. Just take two very recent examples: the hostages who were liberated last weekend, screaming, “Mom, Dad, I survived.” Yes, it’s a victory! They survived. Sadly, some did not, and my heart cries for every life lost. But I focus on these heroes and their survival.
At the same time, my heart aches for those who justify such atrocities. I think about them every day and pray for the release of the hostages. It’s what I do. I also visited the Nova Festival exhibition to honor those who were savagely taken. I want them to know I am with them, standing in their memory.
I can’t forget the women of Iran who I’ve supported in my heart and actions for more than two years, or the women in Afghanistan who are no longer allowed to speak. I can’t understand. I think about the men and women sold as slaves, trafficked, and worse, every day. Yes, there is a lot of unfairness, and we must find ways to stop it. We can’t just turn a blind eye.
But there are also shining examples of hope and resilience. The nurse in Israel who lost her daughter during the October 7th attacks but continues to help reunite families with their loved ones. The courage of the Polin Goldbergs, who continue advocating for the hostages despite the loss of their son, Hersh. There’s the woman born without arms who lives her life, does taekwondo, falls in love, gets married, has a child, and cares for her family. And the woman who lost both her legs and still does it all.
There are so many men and women, just like you and me, who get up every day and find a way to add something positive to the world. It could be as simple as holding a door for someone or acknowledging another human being by saying hello.
Today, I’ve decided to return to my blog and share more of my thoughts with you. I’ll continue to keep my Instagram for my art, but here I’ll share cool places, inspiring people, and reflections on life. Decide what life you want to live. Set good goals and thoughts for yourself. Acknowledge the sadness and trauma, but let’s find a way to rise above it, as we are all made of stars. We are all capable of making this world better, with love and light.
With love and light,
Jessica

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Caroline R. Cullière