My ACT capstone project, entitled: Befriend, a global movement of connection through compassion, combined a theoretical and an experiential platform to explore the question, “Can a simple, compassionate connection be life-changing?” With the invaluable guidance and support of my ACT teachers, along with my colleagues and testimonials from people directly touched by Befriend, the answer was a definite, YES!
“When you look for the friend, the friend is looking for you.” ~ Rumi
Befriend inspires a lifestyle of curiosity, connection, and compassion for all. We offer experiences for people to connect with others different from themselves, foster understanding and create friendships that empower people and communities to thrive. When people show up with a curious mind and an open heart, a magical energy is created that allows people to feel welcome and safe. At Befriend people are seen, heard, understood and loved. Everyone belongs. We find that when people from different backgrounds meet and have conversations, we realize that at our core we are more alike than different. Our amour dissolves and true connection and change happens.
Our community-based, organic approach meets people where they are and offers many opportunities for human connection. We believe everyone is on a continuum of compassion each with a unique starting point. Befriend offers ways for people to move along this continuum to create a more compassionate world for all.
A ripple effect is created, and new friendships form that would not have otherwise been possible. It’s about being friends with others from a different background first, then sharing our resources and networks with others as the relationship develops. Both sides of the friendship are changed forever. This example of social capital is a potential pathway out of poverty. These friendships create change that empower people and communities to thrive. In addition, with the epidemic of loneliness in our country, Befriend is an answer by offering a simple, positive way for human connection.
As an ACT at CCARE Stanford 2021 graduate, I remain in touch with my mentors through individual meetings, CCARE Compassion Alumni Community sessions, and even meeting Dr. James Doty in person! Recently, I was introduced to the psychological term, moral elevation by social psychologist, Dr. Jonathan Haidt. Moral elevation is “a positive emotion experienced when witnessing a virtuous act, one that improves the welfare of others” (Algoe & Haidt, 2009). For example, moral elevation is created during a Befriend Walk of Kindness. We walk together and share flowers with messages of hope with people we meet along the way. The ripple effects include the person giving the flower feels good, the person receiving the flower feels a little happier, and people noticing this at a distance, smile. When photos are taken and the moment is shared more widely, the beautiful ripples of moral elevation are endless.
With roots in Richmond, VA Befriend translates all over our country and the world. We’ve had Befriend moments take place across the US and as far away as Morocco. The movement continues to grow. As an Ambassador of Compassion through CCARE Stanford, when we connect and listen to each other’s stories, we discover the truths permeating our society. From this understanding we can create bridges, instead of divisions, that lift each other up through compassionate action. My compassion training gave me confidence and credibility to grow this movement. The teachings of science-based research validated the importance of compassion and that everyone has the capacity to cultivate their own compassion. An atmosphere of trust and mutual respect was skillfully created. Through thought-provoking lectures, life-changing conversations, and fascinating self-exploration, I now have many new friends from around the globe. This unique, shared experience created a global community of like-minded friends and continues to grow.
Let’s all celebrate our common humanity and lift each other up to bring our community, our country, and the world closer together. Heartfelt thanks to my mentors and my friends from ACT at CCARE Stanford for being my guiding lights. This has truly been a life-changing experience for me. Through the inspiration of compassion, we are collectively making the world a better place for all!
To find out more about Befriend, check out Befriend’s IG @befriend.movement and website www.befriendmovement.org.
