Three Acts of Peace to Do from Your phone

In 2014, a study of 2,000 smartphone owners found that we pick up our devices more than 1,500 times per week. With these portable computers taking over an increasing amount of time in our day, it can be difficult to disconnect. Mom and dad start to worry if our phones go to voicemail too many times; friends get frustrated if we don’t promptly reply to texts; work seems to fall apart if we aren’t reachable even at the checkout counter or walking through the park. But without them, how could we spontaneously organize a group to meet at a baseball game? Or whiteness a baby’s first steps through video chat even when you’re on the other side of the country? Our relationship with them is bittersweet, and for today, let’s focus on the sweet.

Our phones allow us to do a lot in a little amount of time. Here are three acts of peace that you can do today with just the touch of a screen.

Sign the Petitionpeition

The internet gives us the opportunity to not only learn about world issues but also take action on them. There are hundreds of thousands of causes out there, and sometimes contributing to them is as easy as signing your name. Not sure where to start? Consider signing the Global Arms Trade Treaty.  Also, many government sites will include lists of petitions impacting the country or world. You can even create your own petition through sites such as change.org.

Voice Your Opinion

Social media is a great way to educate your friends and family about issues they may otherwise be unaware of. Share articles and voice your opinions. Who knows? Maybe it will get shared.

Phone a Friend

Like anything else of value, maintaining relationships requires a little work. Simply put, we have to show up. Luckily our smartphones give us the opportunity to check in even when we’re continents apart. Take advantage of this by catching up with friends and family through a good old-fashioned phone call to let them know you were thinking about them. It will brighten both of your days.

Take advantage of the resources at your fingertips by taking a stance or checking in on a friend. Each of these acts of peace can have a snowballing effect on the world around you and the people in it.