Why should we care? What is in it for us? Why should I have a vested interest in the quality of life of those around me? What does it matter to me how Iran's affairs in the Middle East play out? I am only one person.
Far too often we are bombarded with messages of huge international issues, confrontations, or organizations and are made to feel as though there is little or nothing that we as individuals can do as a response. Far too often we are even shown media blurbs about mega-corporations, or corrupt systems in our own country and we are left feeling powerless to stop these giants. Even more often, many of the unspeakable evils occurring in our country and around the world escape our knowledge because we don't take the time and energy to care.
By silently sitting and watching time go by, we are condoning the actions that this world has taken. By not looking at systemic racism, sexism, classism, and sexual orientationism that operates especially within our own contexts and our own country we are supporting these oppressive systems and approving their actions. Inaction has become the way of the individual.
It is up to us, especially in this individualistic society that we live in, to take a stand for what we believe in. It is up to us to become informed on issues that are important to us, and to some of those that we are blind to. It is up to us to take action as individuals. We are a part of this world, and as participants, it is up to us to embrace our greater humanity and get involved. Even if it is only mentally, becoming aware of the realities of this life is half the battle.
Find out what it is that you are passionate about, and make sure that the world knows why you are. Find out something that you didn't know about the world, and participate in a new way. When we all become involved, we can engage one another. We need to let that engagement be a powerful symbol. A symbol for peace.
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