Dare ya.

So I have a bit of a challenge for you. It's hard to do, and it takes a bit of courage, but it is something you can do to completely change someone's life.

Have you ever been on Facebook and seen someone post an unusual status? Something that reads a little strange? Something that made you wonder if that person was alright? I dare you, the next time you see someone struggling with something going on in their life, the next status you read that is clearly a cry for help, send that person a message. 

I'm not talking about a one-liner. No "hey so sorry for whats going on in your life" messages. I'm talking about a real, heartfelt, paragraph about what is going on in their life. Or, if you aren't completely sure what is going on in their life, then write a paragraph that shows you are concerned about them, instead. By sending a larger paragraph, you have not only surprised them with a message, but you have surprised them with your kindness and your sincerity in that message. Offer your hand in friendship, reassure them that life always gets better, connect with them somehow. You may even make a new friend. 

It will be very uncomfortable for you, because you won't really know how to phrase what you want to say, you won't know how they will respond, and you won't know if you are overstepping a boundary. Let me enlighten you on something. I have done this multiple times. I have made it a practice that if a red flag goes up when I read a status, I send a message and listen to my gut. For as many times as I have done this, there hasn't been a time where my recipient didn't appreciate what I wrote. More often than not, people will be surprised by the sincerity you offer, and thank you for your honest concern. 

What it boils down to, is you never know what is going on in someones life, and reaching out to someone is never a bad thing. For all you know, the impact you left on that person will change their life forever. You hear about teens taking their lives over bullying-- you're message could very easily restore someone's faith. 

Too many times we shy away from things that make us uncomfortable. It is easier to avert your eyes and walk away swiftly than to extend your hand and offer a warm smile. But although it is easier to do so, it is not the correct way to live. Sending someone a message is the simplest way to reach out... and just like you'll never know what is going on in someone's life, you will never truly know the impact you've left on them, either. 

I dare you. Reach out to someone, even just one time. You'll be amazed at how it goes, and how you feel after.