Love, Peace, And Understanding

Carrying the Love

Yesterday, my school was visited by a team of college students who were spreading this campaign called, "Carry the Love." This group pulled everyone out of class and into the auditorium. They each talked about a challenge in their lives that taught them the power of love. Each college student gave us a different way that the love of their friend's and family had changed the course of their lives. A great amount of kids around me who agreed with the message that was shared with us.

There was one kid, Josh, who really seemed to latch onto the message of love and kindness. When one of the speakers asked for everyone who believed that love can change the world to stand up, he was the first to his feet. His buddies around him were laughing and taunting him about it, but he stood there. He was proud to say that he believed in love. I was so inspired by him, even though I will probably never get a chance to tell him that.

The group that came challenged my whole school to make love apart of our daily lives at school. They told us to try our best to be kind all day and notice the change in the atmosphere. I definitely saw and felt a change. Kids were hugging each other randomly, people giving out compliments to those they didn't know, and everyone was expressing their appreciation for one another. The school day was less stressful and more happy than I have ever had before.

Another challenge that was given to us was to participate in the "10 Day's of Love" challenge. Everyone was given little booklets that outlined what we should do for other's each day. I am planning to participate in it, along with some warm-hearted friends of mine.

I have decided to challenge y'all too.

Day 1: It's all about Love

Often times, we forget to tell those closest to us how valuable they are in our lives.

Today, take some time to intentionally remind your friends (and family) how much they truly mean to you. Share a favorite memory or a characteristics that stands out to you. Let them know how much you love them.

Day 2: Compliment a Stranger

Everyone loves a compliment! Even from someone they don't know. Today compliment 5 different people that you wouldn't consider a friend.

Some examples > Clothing > Music taste >Personal trait > Game performance > Hair >Smile > Something they said

Get creative and found out how fun it is to bless others! Don't be surprised if people are "awkwarded" out, deep down they totally loved it.

Day 3: Letter of Encouragement

Today, take a moment and write a thank you note to your principle, teacher, mentor, coach, or parent. (It can be anyone who does a lot for you without any thanks or payment) Let them know you see their hard work and that it has impacted your life for the better.

Day 4: We All Gotta Eat

It's time to become the snack master! Today during lunch, buy your friend a snack! Find out what they like and surprise them with a little extra love at lunchtime.

If you are really feeling up to it, find someone who doesn't always have the means to eat, take them through the line, and let them get whatever they want!

Feel the rush of being generous!

Day 5: No One Left Behind

If we are honest with ourselves, no one likes to be alone. Well, maybe for a little bit, but the feeling of being unseen and unwanted is a death trap.

Find someone who is sitting by themselves, introduce yourself, and ask some intentional questions. Where are you from? What kind of music do you like? What do you think is the meaning of life? Are you a gamer or an athlete?

Listen and share your own thoughts too! You might have just found a new friend!

Day 6: It Starts At Home

Every student represents a home. Some homes are better than others, and some families are healthier than others. Today, take some time to show love to your family.

Find something to clean or ask what you can do to help around the house or yard. Spend some time asking your siblings or parents how their day was. Remind your family that you love them. Yes, even the ones that annoy you! ;)

Day 7: Smash the Trash

How much trash can you clear before the end of lunch? Go to as many tables or groups and ask if you can throw their trash away for them. Tell them it's a free service and the more trash you get, the better you feel!

Serving others can be a dirty business, but the real reward is doing what's right.

Make sure to find the janitor and tell them how thankful you are for all he/she does!

Day 8: Everyone Loves CANDY

Could a single piece of candy stop an entire war? No, only love can do that, but love and candy together can work wonders!

Buy as many bags of sweet treats as you can and give them out to as many people as possible. Start shouting, "FREE CANDY!" and watch everyone turn into children again.

The truth is that it's always better to give than to receive. What better way than by being the candyman/woman!

Day 9: Let Your Voice Be Heard

Time to dig deep and root out every last ounce of fear. Today, come prepared to publicly affirm a few different friends so others can hear it!

When your friend group, class, or sports team is all together, get everyone's attention and say, "I don't know if you're aware, but is an amazing person." List a few ways that person is truly awesome.

This might feel weird in the moment, but push through and be confident!

Day 10: Affirmation Overload

Together with a few friends, pick someone at school and put in a team effort to go over and above to blast them with a full on love bomb!

You can get them coffee in the morning, lunch in the afternoon, notes throughout the day, gift card to their favorite hangout spot, and tons of encouragement, Get Creative!

Treat this person like it's their birthday, except it's not, it's their affirmation day!

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A/N: I want to hear if anyone decides to take up this challenge and if it changed anything in your life. Please don't be afraid to message or comment, because I love hearing from y'all!

Also, if you liked this challenge, give me a vote!

~ Ruby :P