Whispers Of Grace

Daily writing prompt

What would you change about modern society?

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By Lillian Hart

A few months ago, while waiting in line at the grocery store, I noticed something strange: no one was talking. Everyone was either staring at their phone, avoiding eye contact, or clearly in a rush. I wasn’t judging—we’ve all been there. But it made me pause.

Have we become too disconnected?

If someone asked me, “What would you change about modern society?” I wouldn’t say “less technology” or “no social media.” These tools can be helpful, even beautiful, when used with care. But what I would change is this:

I would restore our sense of presence and connection—with each other, with ourselves, and with something greater.

We’re Always Somewhere Else

We live in an age of convenience, speed, and endless information. At any given moment, we can know what’s happening across the world, respond to dozens of messages, and multitask our way through an entire day.

And yet… so many of us feel tired. Not just physically, but spiritually tired. Emotionally scattered. Overstimulated but undernourished.

I’ve caught myself scrolling through social media, comparing my life to strangers. I’ve rushed through moments with loved ones because I was preoccupied with my to-do list. I’ve even had entire days where I barely looked up from my screen.

If I could change one thing, it would be to invite more slowness. More intentional pauses. More real conversations. Not the kind typed in a text bubble, but the kind where you sit across from someone, coffee in hand, and just listen.

We’re Losing the Art of Listening

Listening is one of the most radical acts of love we can offer—but it’s becoming rare.

Modern society often rewards the loudest voice, the fastest response, the next viral take. But I think we’re hungry for something deeper. We want to feel seen, not just followed. Heard, not just “liked.”

In my own life, I’ve learned that true connection takes time, and presence is the first step. Whether it’s in a friendship, a family dinner, or even a prayer, the simple act of slowing down and truly listening can be healing.

So if I could change something about today’s world, it would be this: let’s value silence as much as we do noise. Let’s prioritize relationships over productivity. Let’s remember that human beings are not machines—we need warmth, rest, and room to breathe.

We’ve Forgotten Our Worth

Another thing I’d change? The pressure to always be more. To hustle harder. To never stop improving.

Don’t get me wrong—I love growth. I love setting goals and learning new things. But I’ve also seen how modern society ties our worth to our output. How we measure success by busyness, and rest by laziness.

I once believed that if I wasn’t doing something productive, I was falling behind. But in recent years, I’ve been unlearning that.

You are not behind.
You are not a project.
You are already worthy.

If I could wave a magic wand over society, I’d replace constant striving with a culture of enoughness. A world where people feel safe to rest, to fail, to just be.

Hope for What’s Possible

I know we can’t fix everything overnight. But I’ve seen glimmers of hope.

I’ve seen families choosing device-free dinners. I’ve met communities forming deeper bonds offline. I’ve spoken to people who are reevaluating what success means and choosing slower, more meaningful paths.

Change starts small—one mindful breath, one honest conversation, one quiet walk without checking your phone. It starts with noticing.

So, what would I change about modern society?

I’d bring us back to ourselves. To our shared humanity. To the sacredness of ordinary moments.

Because in the end, it’s not the noise or the pace or the platforms that define us. It’s how we show up for each other. And how we choose to live—with grace, with intention, and with hearts open to what really matters.

About the Author
Lillian Hart is a writer and journal creator who believes in the power of slow mornings, deep reflection, and real human connection. Through CrowRow Guide, she helps others live more intentionally through guided journals and soulful storytelling. Find her at crowrowguide.com