Director's Take

The Butterfly Effect

02-19-2025

Dear Friend of Downtown,

The butterfly effect – the theory that small changes can lead to big consequences, especially in complex systems.

I believe that we live out this theory every day, most of us unaware of the effects of our actions, our words, and even our thoughts. Because we are all living in this city, in this country, on this earth together, our energy is intertwined. We interact with people, both friends and strangers, every day whose energy we absorb or reflect.

Think about someone extending a helping hand to you, or just smiling a big hello in your direction. It is contagious and we are likely to pass that on to the next person we see. The same goes for sour attitudes or negative behavior, unfortunately bringing out that same grumpy or pessimistic feeling in us. We pass that along to folks, too.

This world needs more kindness, especially as divided as we’ve become. And because there are more people walking around downtown than any other neighborhood, I’d love to see us all take a little more responsibility for the energy we put out into the world… starting with our thoughts. Thoughts become actions and can be an impactful way to spread more cheer and love.

Smile at your neighbor, pick up a piece of litter, help someone with a door, buy someone’s coffee, tell them they look great… a little bit can go a long way if we all catch on.

See you smiling on the streets soon!