This year has been one of the hardest we've had to face, collectively. I've found comfort in knowing we're all facing the same problem in unity, but struggled to find a ray of hope to clutch onto. I found that hope within this book.

Channel Kindness is a collection of stories from a diverse community of people from all around the world. Racism, sexism, harassment, ableism, homophobia - so many important issues tackled, and shows that kindness will always win. In a world where it is now so easy to be unkind, show kindness.

From overcoming bullies, young people starting their own movements, battling mental health issues, forgiveness - this book covers it all. It highlighted to me that one small act of kindness can start the change that the world needs; or can give someone else the push they need to change the world.

It's fascinating to me that one small ripple can lead to a tidal wave; and this book demonstrates that in the best way.

I think because the stories are so short, it's very easy to dip in and out of; or read out of chronological order - which is something I love in a non-fiction book. It's easy to digest, and although there's a few very heavy-hitting stories in there, it never feels hard to read - which I found quite remarkable.

I love how inclusive this book is, and I think there'll be something for everyone in there to make you feel like you're seen; and that your voice is valid. As a disabled, bisexual female who battles with mental health - I adored this book, and resonated with many stories. 

There's a particular story within the book called The Choose Love Movement, and there's three words I took away from that story, that sum this beautiful book up in three words - nurturing healing love.

When I put this book down, I sat and thought about ways I could channel kindness, and ways I may already have done so. There was a particular story in the book that reminded me of a time in my life that I had completely forgotten. A time where 16 year old me was visiting my sister on a Friday night. I had bought some chocolate on the walk down, and was excitedly walking down the busy road to her house. As I approached the end of the road, I could see what looked like a man lying on the ground in the distance. Cars drove past him. People walked past him. I will admit, from an outside perspective, he looked like a drunk or maybe a drug addict - but did that mean him any less deserving of kindness?

As I got closer, I looked closer at him and had a gut feeling that he was diabetic (I used to have a close family member who was). I remembered the chocolate, and felt it burning in my pocket. I was scared, and could have been wrong; but I could also save this man's life. People walked past as I made sure this man, with trembling hands, ate the chocolate bar I'd given him. It turned out I had saved this man's life. And I carried on to my sister's, and had completely forgotten about that day...until now.

Your actions, no matter how big or small, can change someone's life. Online and offline, please remember that. And let's make the world a better place.