We are often inundated with waves of heartbreaking news — each article, podcast, or breaking news alert sharing details of real-life devastation, both near us and around the world. In the midst of this, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, flat, or cynical. How can we possibly make a positive impact on all of this?
This may sound simple, and perhaps even simplistic, but sometimes the most meaningful thing we can do is to be a caring adult. We can be a steady, trustworthy presence — not perfect, but steady — for children and youth, and for the adults around us as well.
Last week, I came across a set of statistics that stopped me in my tracks. I realize this may feel like one more wave of difficult information, but it also brings into focus just how significant this kind of presence can be:
- Percentage of Americans who say that, as children, they knew a compassionate, nonjudgmental adult: 35%
- Of those, the percentage who say that person was their mother: 50%
- The percentage who say it was their father: 5%
These figures were published in the May 2026 Harper’s Index, which compiles statistics from a range of underlying sources. In this case, the data is attributed to BSM Media, a research and marketing firm.
What if you can simply be a solid, trustworthy version of yourself and make that much of an impact?
—Renee Roederer
Smuggling Grace 