Refreshingly motivating, "It Starts With Me" kicked off the year with a warm piece of advice. Reshmi Patel encouraged her readers to improve the way they act and behave by training themselves to develop a positive outlook. Patel argues that humans are capable of possessing pure intentions when giving back to their community if they set their mind to it. Readers are showered with hope, that the world can truly become a better place, if they do the best they can.

   Seeing the world as it is, I'm shaken by the discrimination and hate that spreads. I understand what Patel means when she writes, "An altruistic act may be as small as smiling and wishinig someone 'Good morning'.... these small acts will evolve into greater deeds...." It is truly comforting, to know that I can become a greater person who can help others. As for now I can't do much but smile to my peers. I look foward to growing thanks to the wisdom of Reshmi Patel.