Why Our Values Matter More Than Ever

Why Our Values Matter More Than Ever

Growing up, I had plenty of lessons in the power of words.

My dad was a psychiatrist who raised my awareness about the power of the inner mind.  I’ll never forget when he practiced hypnosis on me so I could think clearly before a math test.  (It worked!)  

My mom taught both Hebrew School and Sunday School, and gave us four kids unconditional love and a deep appreciation of a key teaching in Judaism — “tikkun olam.”  It’s a commandment to “heal the world.”

As I reflect back, I’m award that above all else, we lived by a set of values. 

Kindness.  Respect.  Justice.

If someone felt upset in the family, each of us was equally able to call a family meeting.  We’d sit around the kitchen table, discussing concerns, and together, we’d come to a solution.  We kids knew when we misbehaved, so we said our apologies.  Likewise, if we were mad at a parent, we had the right to call a family meeting.  We learned the importance of getting along. 

Now, though my parents are now gone, my siblings and I are still close.  We hold Zoom family meetings every Sunday morning, just to stay in touch.

What values are important to you?   If family is important, can you make time for them?

In a world that’s increasingly divided by disrespect, what can you do to speak up for justice?  

In spite of the upheaval around us, how can we exemplify the values of integrity, compassion, and unity? 

Those values have never been more vital.  When we toss away those guiding principles that anchor our humanity, we’re breaking apart the connections we need to one another.  

When we live with values, they can change communities. They can change lives. And most of all, they can change the world.

Now, more than ever, we need every voice—your voice—to speak up and stand up. For justice. For equity. For love.  While we’re witnessing a shocking disregard for kindness, empathy and justice, we must not take the easy route.  Don’t retreat into silence.  I ask you to be courageous.  To live by decency. 

I believe it’s not always the loudest voice that makes the difference.  Instead, it’s the consistent one.  The one that’s based in truth, humility and heart-centered love for humankind.

A Living Example of Unity in Action

Let me tell you a story of unity.  It’s a powerful example of values in motion, based on an interfaith friendship that blossomed into action at the Texas border.

Four years ago, friends from three very different religious communities—my rabbi Bruce Elder from Congregation Hakafa, Reverend Jeff Braun from the Winnetka Congregational Church, and Asif Masood, from the Muslim Community Center in Morton Grove—came together with one shared purpose: to serve.

United by compassion, they volunteered with members from their respective groups to bring meals and human connection to immigrants.  These were families fleeing hardship, seeking safety and hope—people often met with skepticism or silence. But this trio of faith leaders and their flock brought something different: kindness, unity, and dignity. Those values are more needed than ever today!

Their collaboration wasn’t just about providing food. It was about feeding the spirit of humanity. As they worked side-by-side, their differences faded into the background. What remained was a bond formed through service—a friendship sealed by shared values and a desire to help those in need.

That story reminds us that when we step outside our comfort zones to serve a greater good, walls come down. Hearts open. And bridges are built—not just between faiths, but between souls.

The Call to Speak and Serve

We are all needed.

Let’s not underestimate the ripple effect of kindness. Let’s not wait for “someone else” to stand up for what is right.

Because compassion is contagious.
Integrity is inspiring.
And values are the seeds of lasting change.

Together, let’s be bold enough to care. To be courageous enough to act. 

And to be committed enough to build a world where justice and kindness walk hand in hand.   

Make a difference with your stories. 

Visit:  https://DIfferenceMakersMedia.com.

#yourstorymatters #MakeADifference #BeTheOne

How To Get Started With Video Marketing

How To Get Started With Video Marketing

Creating video has gotten easier than ever.  

But a big challenge still remains…

With over one BILLION videos posted on YouTube daily, the  — how do you get found?

Here are story marketing tips so YOU stand out from your competition.

  1.  SOLVE A PROBLEM –  The trend nowadays is creating a challenge.   But a challenge is useless unless you’res solving a problem for someone.  So, instead of encouraging people to simply post any video, think to yourself — what solution can I offer my prospect?
  2. CREATE A CATCHY TITLE — Can you make it emotional?  Does it appeal to a specific audience?  Come up with several titles for your video or webinar, and do a brief survey with your trusted colleagues to get their feedback.   What’s most appealing?  Consider using a keyword that ties in with your topic.
  3. MODEL A SUCCESSFUL COMPANY/PERSON – Who is outstanding in your field?  Check out their work and see how you might create a similar video or program.
  4. MAKE YOURSELF A HABIT – Build trust among your followers by providing value at every step.  As you fulfill needs or exceed expectations, your prospects will WANT to tune in to whatever you have to say.
  5. GET DIRECTION – Distraction can be easy without accountability.  Without guidance, the hard way is inevitable.  Consider having a coach to move your business forward.  Empowerment coaching  helps you be accountable.

On the horizon, I plan to create a new Difference Makers Connections Cafe.  It will be a chance to learn directly from business leaders from around the country and beyond.  What questions would you like answers to?  Please let me know.

Now, for more tips on boosting your business through video marketing, check out the article below.

Happy 2019!

Warmly,

Lynn