To say that the world is a cruel and difficult place is an understatement. Violence, poverty, corruption, and other such trials litter this Earth that we reside on in abundance. It is easy to become caught up in the idea that suffering is the prominent experience that we go through. With this dominating idea, that life is a constant struggle of barely getting by each day, one could argue with ease that we should only watch our own hides. I am here to say, however, that I think that when we sacrifice the little we have to benefit those who are in need, we end up better off than if we stuck to ourselves, and hoarded our resources.

Think about the last time you really did something alone. I mean truly alone. When you had no hope of turning to someone when there were no sources, no friends, no family, no co-workers, nothing you could turn to for aid in your task. Think about the last time you truly felt alone, in a cold, dark, and bleak existence. Now, imagine if that was something that was brought upon you because of someone else's selfishness, instead of just them being unable to assist you. Imagine turning to someone for aid, aid that would mean the difference between defeat at the hands of your demons and triumph. I doubt you have to imagine. We all have had such occurrences happen to us. It is even safe to say that we have probably been the one to deny our aid. Do we wish to live in such a world, where we advocate such actions? Do we want to live in a world, where those in need are left alone to suffer and fend for themselves? I believe there is a better way, that there is always a better way.

Instead of letting others struggle alone, I believe that we should be our "brother's keeper." There should never be someone left alone, to trudge through hardships in solitary. When you see another who has need of you, even if it requires a sacrifice of your time, resources, or even your being, I firmly believe you should help them.

Stand up for the segregated. Stand up for the bullied. Stand up for the disadvantaged. Stand up for those less privileged than you. Comfort those in need of comfort. Comfort the depressed. Comfort the Anxious. Comfort the suicidal. Comfort the mentally ill. Comfort and aid the handicapped. Befriend the loner. Befriend the outcast. Befriend your enemies.

Change is needed to improve this world. Be that change. Be the kindness that you wish had been shown to you in your time of need. Be the comfort you wish you had in your darkest hour. Be the peace you wish that you had in your billowing turmoils.

Be the keeper you never had, be better.