Don’t leave it to the activists, the change-makers, the charities or the politicians. Change doesn’t happen by itself. Democracy, the end of slavery, freedom from colonialism, worker’s rights, women’s rights, civil rights, animal rights, the end of apartheid, equality, fair trade, environmental protection, public education, healthcare, the hospice movement, the GAA – they all came about because a few passionate people had the courage to take action and make history.
This is a moment in time where all of us can make history. The conditions are fertile, the need is great. Pick your issue – mental health, obesity, homelessness, the environment, political corruption – whatever lights your fire. Turning a blind eye, zoning into entertainment or believing others have it under control aren’t options. When nuclear meltdown in Japan affects our air, when genetically modified food legislation affects our dinner plates, when corporate and political corruption affects our jobs and families, choosing not to participate isn’t an option.
The issues can be overwhelming and it’s easy to fall into despair. There are plenty of escape routes on offer to help numb the pain. Alcohol, drugs, gambling, entertainment, they all offer a way out in the short-term but do little to help things in the long run. Instead we need to walk through despair and take action on the things that bother us, the things we’re fed up and frustrated about – especially if that something is you.
Someone once said that everyone wants to change the world and no one wants to change themselves. The end is inherent in the means so we need to be the change we want to see in the world. People tend to be much more supportive of healthy, balanced and solution focused people who are making things happen.
Bringing about change isn’t easy. Lots of people talk the talk but few walk the walk. It takes courage and you can face isolation, ridicule and resistance. Despite this you gain dignity, hope, and a sense that you’re no longer a passive consumer. Instead, you become somebody making your mark on the world. It feels good and it benefits your community, country and planet.
Activism doesn’t need to conform to media led stereotypes so protest and placards aren’t prerequisites. There are as many different ways as there are people. Protests, pickets and petitions are all relevant and necessary but so too is voting, volunteering, spending quality time with children, growing food, smiling at strangers and changing your ways.
This is a turning point in time and we need to make it count. There are vast possibilities for transformation if we have the courage and conviction to see beyond what is holding us back. Whatever your age, ability, background or situation, change is always possible. All that is required is action, and if not you then who?