Addressing root causes
As we've seen, the smallest actions can make a big difference in the lives of the people you meet. Each of these actions is crucial to building a better world. Yet, as you reach out to others and volunteer, you may begin to ask yourself questions. You will wonder, 'Why does a particular problem exist?' and seek the underlying structural causes behind it. Maybe there would be less litter in the park if people generated less garbage or if it was possible to return some of the packaging for refunds as we do in the case of beer bottles. Maybe there would be fewer smog warnings if more of us took public transit.
You may find that the basic problem lies in government policies or corporate business practices. In both cases you have two fundamental tools: a vote and a voice. Throughout history millions have died in revolutions, wars and civil rights struggles for democracy. Today, millions more are affected by issues rooted in political choices – people living in poverty, facing discrimination and struggling without a voice.
One of the easiest and most powerful tools to influence systemic change and address root causes is our democratic right and responsibility to vote. As Edmund Burke once said: "All that is required for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing."
As you realize how easy it is and how good it feels to share your gifts and talents, your actions will strengthen your own resolve as an ambassador for this movement. Each time you think in the mind-set of "we" and choose to act accordingly, you will inspire others to follow your example. All it takes is one person to stand up, act as a catalyst and light the spark to inspire others who agree that change is needed but who are hesitant to come forward to start the chain of events themselves. Once the first person acts, the rest are often emboldened to follow.
For more information, visit metowe.org
Excerpted from Me to We: Turning Self-Help On Its Head by Craig Kielburger and Marc Kielburger. Copyright 2004 by Craig Kielburger and Marc Kielburger. Excerpted, with permission by John Wiley & Sons. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
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