July 23 , 2020 /

POLITICS OF CHANGE

From the Consulting page on my web site, this: “There are two kinds of change, planned and unplanned. While the former is more desirable, it’s not always possible. When planned change can be anticipated there are specific steps to ensure that the most effective and successful change is implemented. When change that is precipitated by external factors is not anticipated, the response to the experience may need additional support and guidance in order to embrace change in the best possible way. In addition to crisis management, there are numerous other responses available.”

As we consider the current crises that are affecting all of us and the planet, we would do well to reflect on how we are or are not involved in changing what we can and responding creatively to what is happening that we did not anticipate.

I urge you to work to help change the flawed and failed leadership at the highest levels by exercising a vote for change in November and encouraging others to do the same.  In the aftermath of the Covid 19 crisis, we can do all that we can to mitigate the spread of the virus by following the guidelines set forth by the health experts and likewise, encouraging others to do the same.

There is strength in numbers and whether you are a social activist or a passive resister, it is important to take sides, especially in light of what’s going on in these Disunited States of America.  Elie Wiesel said it best: We must take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Sometimes we must interfere. When human lives are endangered, when human dignity is in jeopardy, national borders and sensitivities become irrelevant. Wherever men and women are persecuted because of their race, religion, or political views, that place must – at that moment – become the center of the universe.”

Wiesel’s entire speech when he received the Nobel Peace Prize can be found here:

https://eliewieselfoundation.org/elie-wiesel/nobelprizespeech/

My own involvement stems from my personal beliefs, philosophy and practice over the past 60+ years and stems from training and experience in both theology and psychology.  My parents were very influential in my formative years and my dedication to the education of young people and adults was an indication of my commitment to help people to learn, grow and change.  On that front, I laid down some of the watershed experiences that helped to change me in the little book, “Seven Decades: A Learning Memoir.” (River House Press, 2013).  I had the pleasure and blessing of meeting both Martin Luther King, Jr. and Elie Wiesel two of my “heroes” among others.

It is up to each of us to do what we can, with what we have, where we are. Even for those of us in what may appear to be a stage of “retirement” we are far from “retired” so count us in on the struggle in favor of human rights, social justice, peace and the restoration of a culture of caring.  Let’s make these words ring loud and clear: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all (men) are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.—”

 

Comments (2)

  1. A call to action! Now is the time for change. One of the things I like in Australia is that voting is compulsory. In the USA too many people throw away their right to vote and have a voice.

    Alli

    1. The percentage of voters who do not exercise their right, and responsibility, to vote is staggering to me. I don’t understand it except to say I believe we have somehow failed those people earlier on. Perhaps it’s related to my pinned post of “A Failure to Educate” and perhaps a case of apathy and lack of interest. This year, hopefully, will be different in a positive way.

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