In a quiet corner of a bustling city, I sat down with Sonila Sejdaras, a woman whose journey from a war-torn country to becoming a beacon of hope and kindness has left an indelible mark on those around her. As she recounted her experiences, it became evident that her life’s mission is not just about helping others but also inspiring each person to recognize their capacity for kindness and generosity.
A Childhood Shaped by Courage:
Sonila’s childhood, marked by the struggles of living in a country torn apart by civil war, was not one that many would envy. She vividly recalls her mother’s selfless acts, carrying grenades in her pocket as she walked Sonila and her sister to school, a daily ritual aimed at ensuring their safety in a world that seemed perilous.
“When I was a child, I remembered my mom carrying two grenades in her pocket, taking my sister and me to school to ensure our safety,” Sonila shared, her eyes reflecting the strength ingrained in her from an early age.
Despite the challenges, Sonila emphasized that she was not alone in her struggles. With a global estimate of 362 million people in need of humanitarian help, Sonila believes that collective kindness can be a powerful force for change.
The Power of Little Acts:
In a world where numbers often seem overwhelming, Sonila’s message is clear — the power of kindness lies in the seemingly small, everyday gestures that we can all contribute. “We might think we need millions to help, but in this divided world, the power of kindness can be powerful for all of us,” she asserted.
Sonila’s journey from a small country, isolated by a communist government, to the vast opportunities of the United States is a testament to the transformative impact of kindness. At 19 years old, armed with only $300 and a dream for a better future, she embarked on a journey across the ocean.
“If it wasn’t for kind acts along the way from strangers, people that did not know me, I would not be here today to share my mission,” Sonila confessed, her gratitude evident. Those acts of kindness not only shaped her destiny but also led her to a career in psychology, where she has helped thousands of people.
The Science of Kindness:
Sonila, now a psychologist, delves into the science behind kindness with a passion that emanates from personal experience. “Kindness affects serotonin,” she explained. “Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is primarily responsible for regulating our mood and behavior.”
Her eyes lit up as she discussed the profound impact of kindness on serotonin levels. It’s not just the receiver who benefits; the giver experiences an increase in serotonin as well. “Kindness is as powerful as an antidepressant,” she declared, emphasizing the scientifically proven positive impact of benevolent acts.
Whether through a smile, a hug, or donations, Sonila stressed that every individual possesses the power to positively impact their communities. “We all have the power to make a difference in someone’s life,” she urged her words echoing with the conviction that change, no matter how small, starts with each one of us.
Care for Albania: A Nonprofit Born of Compassion:
As the founder of the nonprofit organization “Care for Albania,” Sonila Sejdaras has turned her mission into tangible action. Her organization, driven by compassion and a desire to uplift her home country, focuses on providing much-needed support to those facing challenges in Albania.
“My name is Sonila Sejdaras, and I am the founder of a nonprofit organization called Care for Albania,” she proudly announced. Through this platform, Sonila extends her reach beyond borders, encouraging others to join her in making a meaningful impact.
Sonila Sejdaras, a woman whose life is a testament to the transformative power of kindness, leaves us with a profound lesson — that in a world where problems seem insurmountable, it is the cumulative effect of individual acts of kindness that can truly change lives. As we navigate our paths, let us heed Sonila’s call to reflect on our blessings and, in our small ways, contribute to the immense power of little care that can make a huge impact.
