The Journey of Ms. America International 2016

As Ms. America International 2016, my journey is not only about making a difference in the lives of others but to encourage those I meet along the way to do the same. But with so many worthy causes, deserving charities and individuals in need, sometimes it’s difficult to know where to start. “It made a difference to that one” are the words that inspire and motivate me to get involved every day especially when I’m feeling small and helpless during troubling times. I think we all have those moments where overwhelming events or circumstances leave us feeling hopeless and believing that one person can’t possibly make a difference in a world where there is so much turmoil. These are the times that I am reminded of “The Star Thrower” by Loren Eiseley (or “The Starfish Story”) which is about a man throwing starfish beached after a storm back into the sea so they didn’t die in the morning sun. When told there were too many to save and that he could not make a difference, the man smiled, threw another starfish back into the sea and said “it made a difference to that one”. Whether it is a friendly smile, words of kindness or comfort, or reaching out to help someone in need, we all have the power to change a life, a mind, or a circumstance one kind gesture at a time. Have you saved your “starfish” today?

“No act of kindness is too small. The gift of kindness may start as a small ripple that over time can turn into a tidal wave affecting the lives of many.” — Kevin Heath, Ceo More4kids