Since I was a little girl, St. Therese of Lisieux has always captured my mind and heart. Through this powerful saint, I have come to fully believe in her “Little Way”- all people can find holiness through ordinary day-to-day acts if done with love. You don’t have to perform great miracles to make a positive change in the world. Simply living with intention, gratitude, and love can make all the difference. I hope these 25 ideas inspire you in all seasons of life.
25 Ordinary Things Catholics Can Do Well
- Pray your favorite prayer with a sincere heart. God loves conversation out of reverence.
- Smile at a stranger. Never know who is having a tough day and could use some extra cheer. Let your smile light up the world.
- Pick up litter at the park. Protecting God’s creation is always a valuable use of time.
- Listen first to understand, not to respond. Sometimes the best support is not to “fix” something for someone but instead to be present.
- Complete household chores without complaining. Those dirty dishes that never seem to end, the weeding that is so cumbersome…seek joy in caring for your home and space.
- Write a handwritten thank-you note. The sincerity of the gesture makes a huge impact in our digital world.
- Hold the door open for everyone behind you. Male or female, pausing to let others go first is a mini self-sacrifice of your time.
- Let someone else have the last treat (cookie, brownie, slice of pie, etc.).
- Sit in silence with someone grieving. Healing doesn’t have to be complicated.
- Call a distant relative or friend on the phone instead of texting.
- Show up early to Mass. Give plenty of time to prepare your heart and mind for the beauty of Mass.
- Give up your seat for the elderly, pregnant women, or those with physical ailments.
- Cook a homemade meal for a tired relative or friend. So much better than fast food!
- Clear the table after dinner for the whole family. Small acts of service are beacons of love.
- Donate new or gently used clothing and shoes to St. Vincent De Paul Society or another community partner.
- Read a story to a child/children. Inspire the next generation.
- Pick up groceries for an ill neighbor. Grocery pickup options can help this process go smoothly.
- Give a genuine compliment.
- Pray for the person who cuts you off while driving.
- Be mindful to reduce waste. This helps the environment and your budget.
- Make a gratitude list. Count what is easy to be thankful for and what is more difficult.
- Be present with others. Limit distractions (electronics, social media, worries, etc.).
- Volunteer your time, talent, or treasure. Nothing sacrificed is too small.
- Pray the Rosary with your family. Even a single decade is a gift of time and love to our Savior.
- Be yourself. God designed you as His child and loves you exactly as you are.
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