The world feels a little wild right now, doesn’t it? There’s a lot happening — globally, locally, even just in the swirl of our daily lives. Some days, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or wonder if anything we do can actually make a difference.

But here’s the thing I’m reminding myself of: we’re not powerless. Even the smallest actions can spark big change. The softest words can reach the heart of someone who needs them most.

This month’s elevenie was born from that feeling. It’s my way of saying, “Hey, I see you. I believe in the good we can create together.” It might be just a few words, but it’s a first step. And right now, small steps matter more than ever.

As a writer, words are often the first tools I reach for when I want to connect, uplift, or inspire. But I’m also looking for more ways to show up. Some days, that looks like writing. Other days, it’s a simple act of kindness, a shared smile, or a conversation that reminds someone they’re not alone.

The truth is, we don’t have to change the whole world overnight. We can start by changing the moment right in front of us.

When the world feels heavy, how do you rise up? What’s your spark? How do you lift others or yourself?

I believe in the power of small sparks. I believe in the stories we tell. And I believe in us. The dreamers, the writers, the doers, the ones who refuse to give up on something better.