♥Sociology MIndfulness

 

    In sociology class we discussed sociological mindfulness. We described sociological mindfulness as being aware and acknowledging  how peers and acquaintances connect and knowing how you can influence the world and those around you, but also knowing how they influence you.  Everyone is intertwined and connected.  Our actions affect other people around us and it is our job to be aware of that and what we can do to leave a positive influence or impact.We recently read the article "Sociological Mindfulness" by Michael Schwalbe. In this article he said "Treat other people the way you want to be treated."  These is a common phrase that we have heard through out our lives and also repeat to young ones around us. In this day people are often talking about respect towards others and their property, but how often do we take our own words and use our own advice.  We need to take in to consideration how our words and actions can affect others and ourselves. We are all shaped by our culture and the time period. Many people have there set ways and are afraid to open up to new ideas or views on life. We tend to over look things and it has become normal in most peoples life. As we learn to pay attention and appreciate those little things around us we can open our minds more widely to sociology mindfulness. We need to realize that everybody is different and has their own unique qualities. We need to be able to accept a person and their flaws along with being able to appreciate their qualities and views. Something as little as one person can make a huge impact. In class Sal said something along the lines of something as small as a ripple can end up on the other side of the ocean as a wave. Our influence can mean a lot. This reminded me of the movie pay it forward. For those of you who have never seen this movie it is about just one boy who decides to do a nice thing for three different people. These people then have to pay it forward to three more people.This movement that ends up quite a distance from its origin.This helps me to believe I can make a difference along with any other person by just setting an example.
     I know that in my life I tend to not give a lot of thought to things especially when it comes to school. I may not notice the influence I have on my friends directly and others around me. I have learned though through my example I can make a positive impact in other people's lives. I have noticed that I do not always openly look at things. At school I have meet many people who mainly are self involved and for that reason they do not realize or care the impact they may cause on their peers. Our community has a certain mind set and opinion as a whole and as we grow up we become accustomed to this and at sometimes causes us to think in a similar way. I have a friend who would never speak out in fear of peers and all those people around her. She never felt comfort enough to speak against others. Through example though one person at a time we can change.