We live in a time period where a lot of change is taking place. While some people are responding with silence and conformity, others are choosing to express their concerns, show their compassion, and engage in patient and persistent engagement. They are not defaulting to the common social illnesses of this time, namely hopelessness, cynicism, and bitterness.
In particular, these people are thoughtfully expanding their circle of care in order to build community. They also are volunteering their most precious resource, namely their time, to organizations that are making a difference in their community. This has become their foundation for creating deep and lasting, positive change.
From my perspective, each of these people understands what John Green was saying when he wrote: “How we spend our attention really matters, because we are much more likely to solve the problems we pay attention to.” And these people are willing to pay attention to what matters, and are actively engaged in solving problems, and building a broad network of relationships. They do all of this by acting with agency and integrity while staying true to their values and beliefs.
During the coming new year, I hope we can all aspire to be these kinds of people.
© Geery Howe 2025
No comments:
Post a Comment