There are many simple and easy things that almost anyone can do to make the world a better place. This world is plagued by wars, violence and poverty. The biggest problems are beyond the control of most people, but that does not mean there is nothing that you can do. You can do plenty, without giving up your money, property or way of life. Below are some ideas to get you started thinking about how you can make your life and the lives of those around you better.

• Communicate across cultures

People need to learn to communicate with each other. You would be surprised to find out how much you have in common with people in other lands. They seem different to you because you have different languages, foods and clothes, but they also love their families, homes and culture, just as you do. Instead of being afraid or trying to change them, listen to them, try their food, listen to their music and look at their history as compared to yours.

When you talk to a stranger, you often find a new friend, or at least, you know more about someone else and realize this person is not an enemy to be feared. In addition, food from other countries can open up a completely new universe of wonderful taste experiences you would have missed otherwise. Find out what books they read; you may have read the same things. Ask them what spices they use when they roast a chicken and tell them what you favor on yours.

• Small gestures count

In todays world, you have chances every day to help other people, even if all it does is make them feel better for a little while. Some things are so simple. Pull to the end pump at a gas station. Don’t take the handicapped parking place unless you are entitled to it. Hold the door for someone. Say please and thank you to a store clerk. Wait your turn and ask people if you can help; especially when you see someone who looks lost.

Every time you make someone else’s day a little better, there is a tiny spark of good energy released into the world. You may have felt it when you helped a person pick up some spilled groceries and received their thanks. Every good deed makes the world just a little bit better.

It is hard to calculate and reduce your “carbon footprint”, so why not try to increase your kindness footprint instead. There is an ancient Hebrew word for a kind act: a mitzvah. It is an act, which bestows blessings on both the giver and receiver. Why not try to engage in one of these acts every day? You won’t regret it.