To the editor:

I don’t usually do things like this. I hardly speak my mind about the ongoing events in this world, but I stay aware. I observe what’s happening around me, and I take in what is on the news.

I have realized, however, that it’s not enough. So here is this:

I believe we are all capable of being the “kindness” this world needs.

I believe there are more humans that love to love one another, and it outweighs all of the bad and the hatred that seems to be surrounding us right now.

I have realized that I need to speak up; not only this, I need to make my actions count, not just as an American but as a human being.

I cried and cried over the Las Vegas shooting, and thought of just how unfathomable it is that someone could be so full of hatred. I cried for what the victims had to go through. I cried for the loved ones they lost right in front of their eyes.

However, I also cried because I saw all those people helping others, shielding others and, the day after, watching people in that community donate blood, because that’s the only option they had to help.

You never know what could happen, and you truly don’t know what tomorrow holds.

So here’s the thing:

Be nice. Be kind. Literally, be the change you’d like to see, be the smile that someone needs. I just finished reading the book “Wonder,” by R.J. Palacio, and here is a quote that struck me:

“If every person in this room made it a rule that wherever you are, whenever you can, you will try to act a little kinder than is necessary, the world really would be a better place. And if you do this, if you act just a little kinder than is necessary, someone else, somewhere, someday, may recognize in you, in every single one of you, the face of God.”

Here is to more love, more peace and more unity.

Love each other.

Michaela Oliver

Suffolk