Dr. Michael R. MacDonald
All we seem to hear about these days are bullies who like to throw their weight around. They like to target disadvantaged people who are less able to fight back. These bullies even like to pretend that they are the victims of the very people they attack. So pathetic.
Is this real power? I don’t think so.
When you read the news you may think that power is only related to dominance over others. This may be true in some circumstances, but I think there are more useful and helpful ways to think about power.
REAL AND USEFUL POWER
There’s a quiet kind of power we each carry. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t need a stage. It lives in the choices we make when no one’s watching—the way we listen, the way we show up, the way we care.
Our personal power, used gently and with intention, can do more than move mountains. It can offer comfort in uncertain times. It can open a door for someone who thought they were alone. It can shift the energy in a room from guarded to generous. It can be a force for good.
In a world that often glorifies power that dominates, it’s worth remembering that the most lasting impact often comes from those who lead with heart. The power we hold isn’t in being louder. It’s in being truer. And when we use that power to bring light, ease, or hope to someone else’s path, we remind the world what good can look like.
When someone chooses kindness over indifference, courage over fear, or generosity over self-interest, they ignite a ripple effect. One act of integrity can encourage others to speak up. One choice to serve can motivate a community to care. From volunteering locally to advocating globally, the personal decisions people make each day shape the world in meaningful ways.
Real power lies in courage and kindness. Here is a powerful example. Michael J. Fox’s life and work provide a shining light as he continues to lead with his courage and actions.
THE REAL DEAL
MORE THAN $1.5 BILLION
This is how much money he has raised, through his Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Fox has taken on the challenge of helping people with Parkinson’s disease, since he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1991.
Even while struggling with a serious chronic illness, Fox has gone on to lead this foundation to incredible success. Over seven million people living with Parkinson’s have benefitted from his dedication.
Recently, Michael J. Fox was celebrated for his outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes at the Oscars’ 13th Governors Awards with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
At the ceremony, the award was presented by a close friend, Woody Harrelson. As he introduced Fox, Harrelson said:
“to his cause, Michael J. Fox has brought understanding, empathy and resolve, and with it, inspiration to millions who now stand a little taller, speak in a voice a little stronger and hold on just a little tighter to something all of humanity needs a whole lot more of — hope.”
A standing ovation followed.
You can read the full story here. Prepare to be wowed!
Until next time, let our warm hearts soar!
Michael
michael@aWarmHeart.ca
And thank you for caring that little bit extra – it really makes a big difference.
