When someone is experiencing disaster or tragedy, as with the devastating Los Angeles fires, the scale of destruction can make individual efforts feel insignificant.

But I’m reminded of the story of the boy and the starfish and the profound difference one person can make.

He made a difference by throwing starfish back into the sea one by one. When asked what difference it made when there were thousands of starfish on the beach, he said, "It made a difference to that one."

While we can’t save a home or heal every hurt or heart, small acts of kindness—donating supplies, offering shelter, bringing food to a fire house or donating a dollar if that’s what you can spare —can transform lives. Maybe your gift is bringing joy, sharing your art, your song.

For the starfish tossed back into the ocean, the boy’s action meant everything. Even if he couldn’t help every single one, he did what he could, one by one. In times of crisis, even the smallest gesture has the power to restore hope. Together, these acts ripple outward, proving that each of us can make a difference. A friend with a front row seat to the devastation said to me today, “The beauty will come as people unite and support each other.”

Yes. And it’s already beginning.

I’m praying for everyone in Los Angeles whose lives and personal stories are forever transformed by this tragedy. For so many lifelong Angelenos, their childhood landmarks are gone - their school, their place of worship, their safe space, their home. May we support one another in lightening the burden for our neighbors near and far.

One thing I know for sure is that one day… with resilience… rebuilding, rebirth and renewal will happen. Each and every person will write brand new chapters in their life story. But for now, our prayers and love and unending support are with each and every hurting heart.