Become part of the chain reaction that is Rachel’s Challenge – and change our culture for the better.

Rachel Scott, the first person killed in the Columbine tragedy over a decade ago wrote, “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. People will never know how far a little kindness can go.”

If one writes down a simple statement on a Rachel’s Challenge link of doing or seeing another do an act of kindness or compassion for a friend, neighbor or stranger, it helps to bring and keep in the forefront of your consciousness that act.

Making you think more about it will encourage yourself to do other such acts.

When you do more, the recipients of such generosity or others viewing the same will do likewise. It is a win-win situation for everyone.

You are not boasting when writing about your acts, as the statement can be anonymous without other names stated. You are just encouraging yourself and community members to reach a higher ground of morality.

It is hard to prevent intimidation, bullying or violent behavior. It is easy and productive to promote caring behavior in a positive way.

Join the schools, churches, businesses and residents that have taken up this challenge.

There are chains of links everywhere, but we need to finish with a flourish. Our goal is a two-mile long chain and we still have a ways to reach that milestone. Please find a stack of links and write to your heart’s content – blank links are around town in many places.

With the terrible ice storm, the winds of late or just the toils of everyday life, the potential of random acts of kindness and compassion abound. Love was in the air with Valentine’s Day – were there any acts of kindness then?

Rachel wrote, “Compassion is the greatest form of love humans have to offer.”

The culmination of Rachel’s Challenge for this year is 6:30 p.m. March 6 at the football stadium, when everyone’s chains will be paraded on the field.

Students are collecting all the chains at Pete’s on March 5 to connect them. Be part of our school’s efforts and this communitywide gathering for the Plateau and plan to attend. Testimonials from participants, a Rachel’s Challenge speaker and more will happen.

A celebration in the fieldhouse at Pete’s follows. While King 5 News and other media will be covering the event, come see for yourself how this powerful program has impacted our community and changed a culture.

Trip Hart

LINCCK – Linking Civility, Compassion and Kindness