Back when we first invaded Iraq, I admitted to ignoring the war because I couldn't do anything about it.

Today, I posted a comment in a friend's journal that I think more accurately expresses my feelings on how deeply I feel I should be involved with the more hellish aspects of today's world.

Even if Aaron mocks me for not being able to find Afghanistan on the map (or, frankly, for caring to find it), I really do try to keep at least marginally informed about what is going on in the world. I've got several different headline newsfeeds on my homepage, and I read The Week religiously.

HOWEVER, I try to stay informed with what's going on in the world up to the point that it starts to negatively affect my ability to improve it.

In other words, if I allow myself to become a sucking well of despair, then I'm only helping make the world a suckier place. Alternatively, if I concentrate on my family and things that I can accomplish, then I'm doing my part to bring a little more positive energy into the world.

I can't wave a magic wand and make everything all better. But that doesn't mean I'm entirely helpless. I smile. I hold open doors for people. I help strangers with their packages. And I choose love and hope over hate and despair.