Rachel's Challenge

Tonight I went to a program called Rachel's Challenge. Rachel Joy Scott was the first person shot in the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. A few months before she was killed, she wrote a paper for school titled "My Ethics/My Codes of Life." One of her many writings states. "I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it will start a chain reaction of the same." She lived her life trying to be kind and compassionate to others. She wanted to make a difference in the world. The challenges given by the program include:

1. Eliminate Prejudice by looking for the best in others
2. Dare to dream - set goals and keep a journal 
3. Choose your influences - input determines output
4. Kind words - small acts of kindness = HUGE impact
5. Start a chain reaction with family and friends (tell those you love how you feel and what they mean to you)

I felt the program was very well done and has a wonderful message. I personally have adopted many of these "challenges" into my life already, however, it was very helpful to remind myself to think about how I treat others. I have always had a personal belief that "you are the average of the people and things you surround yourself with," which I think is echoed in the program. What happened at Columbine High School was horrific, but I am continually amazed by the positivity, such as Rachel's Challenge, that can come out of very negative situations.