The potential of a simple gesture to capture the public’s imagination in a time of crisis was illustrated when 99-year-old British army veteran Captain Tom Moore decided to raise some money for workers and patients’ health.

Inspired by the excellent treatment he had received in hospital for skin cancer, he promised to complete 100 laps of his garden, using his walking frame for support, before his 100th birthday later that month. His aim was to raise a modest £1, 000. But news of Captain Tom’s efforts soon reached the ears of a nation through newspapers and TV features. He even teamed up with the singer Michael Ball to record a charity version of “You’ll Never Walk Alone”. Several weeks later, Captain Tom completed his 100 laps ahead of schedule, having raised more than £17 million. “I never dreamt I would be involved in an occasion like this,” he announced. But the Captain Tom’s passion showed no sign of dying down. By the time he reached his 100th birthday on 30th April, he had raised nearly £33 million. He was honoured with a fly-past by Britain’s air force, and the public sent more than 1, 50, 000 birthday cards. His response? “To all those people who are finding it difficult at the moment… the sun will shine on you again, and the clouds will go away.” he said.

In honour of his achievement, Captain Tom was promoted to the rank of Honorary Colonel, and awarded a knighthood(骑士) on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. The money he raised was used to provide comfort and care for National Health Service workers. “I’ve never been someone who does nothing,” he laughs, adding that he enjoyed the challenge. He believes the secret for his success—and his long life—is simple: “It’s all about having the right mindset. You’ve got to be optimistic and to think that things will get better.”

Their man-servant had been sent one morning to Exeter on business, and when he waited at table, he began to chat with his mistress.

“I suppose you know, ma’am, that Mr. Ferrars is married.”

Marianne gave a violent start, fixed her eyes upon Elinor, saw her turning pale, fell back in her chair and lost control of her emotions. Mrs. Dashwood was shocked to realize by Elinor’s expression how much she really suffered.

Mrs. Dashwood immediately took all that trouble on herself;, and Elinor had the benefit of the information without the effort of seeking it.

“Who told you that Mr. Ferrars was married, Thomas?”

“I see Mr. Ferrars myself, ma’am, this morning in Exeter, and his lady too, Miss Steele as was. They were stopping in a chaise at the door of the New London Inn, and she knew me and called to me, and inquired after you, maam, and the young ladies, especially Miss Marianne.”

“But did she tell you she was married, Thomas?”

“Yes, ma’am.” She smiled, and said how she had changed her name since she was in these parts.

“Was Mr. Ferrars in the carriage with her?”

“Yes, ma’am, I just see him leaning (倚靠) back in it, but he did not look up -he never was a gentleman much for talking.”

Elinor’s heart could easily account for his not putting himself forward; and M, Dashwood probably found the same explanation.

“Was there no one else in the carriage?” “No, ma’am, only they two.”

“Do you know where they came from?”

“They come straight from town, as Miss Lucy-Mrs. Ferrars told me.” “And are they going farther westward?”

“Yes, ma’am, but not to bide long. They will soon be back again, and then they’d be sure and call here.”

Thomas’s intelligence seemed over. Elinor looked as if she wished to hear more, Mrs. Dashwood could think of no other question, and Thomas and the tablecloth, were soon afterwards dismissed. Mrs. Dashwood’s and Elinor’s appetites were completely lost. They remained long together in a similarity of thoughtfulness and silence.

This week I have been following the story of an 8-year-old girl named Sa'fyre. She was seriously burned in a house fire three years ago. That fire took the lives of her father and sister but Sa'fyre survived because her father covered her tiny body with his own.

Sa'fyre now lives with her aunt who helped her post a photo on Facebook, stating that this year for Christmas she would like to receive cards from around the world. And Sa'fyre has now received many cards, letters and gifts from all over the globe.

In a world filled with economic inequality and centuries-old religious wars, little Sa'fyre has been able to unite the planet with her simple, innocent request. She has lighted sympathy in hearts everywhere and reminded us that mankind is basically good and kind.

While we are exposed every day by the media to the differences between "us and them" and the reasons we should hate and distrust one another, Sa'fyre has managed to find a common thread of loving kindness that we all share. She has succeeded in bringing the citizens of the world together when all other attempts have failed.

Even as many of us have stepped forward to be of assistance to this little girl, the truth is that she has helped us, by restoring generosity and love during a time when those qualities are most needed.

Last night in my dream I saw the 7.3 billion people of this planet all joined as one, hand in hand; and 7.3 billion hearts beating with the same rhythm. We are not separate. We will only save the planet and our own lives when we finally grasp this fact. We must work together by finding our common ground, our basic humanity. This is a concept so simple that only a little child can lead us there... a child named Sa'fyre who has come to save the world.