I recently received a Google alert that included some great words from UN Deputy Secretary General Asha-Rose Migiro that really got me thinking today.
The world is confronted by a host of crises: a global food crisis; profound climate change; and extreme poverty. Add volatile energy prices and the challenges we face begin to look insurmountable. But together we can succeed in addressing them.
But I would argue that real power comes from building support, forging consensus and constructing partnerships. Real power comes from empowering people. Empowering them to change. Empowering them to reach out to others. Empowering them to improve their lives.
I have seen the incredible capacity of people to make change happen in even the most difficult circumstances. Often, change takes only a small amount of support from a trusted partner.
The task of achieving the Goals is too great for any one of us to achieve alone. We must forge partnerships to empower each other. We must succeed together. Each of us has a personal responsibility to address the grinding poverty that exists alongside abundant plenty. And you, the next generation of leaders, you have a particularly critical role to play. Each one of us comes from a privileged generation ‑‑ each more privileged in many ways than the last. The personal commitments you make today to the global causes you passionately embrace will help define today’s priorities and tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
There are so many ways you can contribute. In fact, there is little excuse for inaction. From efforts to set the world on a new path to food security, to fighting global warming, which so badly endangers our common future, you can make a difference. Your commitment and insight will be welcome.
Then I read this great quote from Theodore Roosevelt in my planner:
In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.
You see, both these have to do with taking action. Taking action on what you believe in and sharing that belief with others. So I am taking action and sharing what I believe in; Encouragement.
No matter what these days hand us, we can overcome these conditions. This is not easy, sometimes not fun and can drain a lot if not all of our energy. But, we must realize that we still get the opportunity to rise everyday and try try again. What if we try to think just a bit differently for ourselves and others? How can we help our co-workers, business partners and family members? It may be lending an ear, stating a compliment or just taking time to be with people and this doesn’t cost any money! Yet it has unmeasurable value.
We can build support for others and for ourselves by talking with our families and business partners to achieve the goals we want. You alone cannot think of everything. This is a reality check for me a lot of times. Reaching out to others can empower us and others to achieve great results.
The other day when I got home from work, my six year old was sooo excited to tell me what went on in his day that he was jumping up and down as soon as I walked in the door. Most days that could test my nerves, but the good Lord told me to slow down and listen. I did, and the excitement in his eyes and tone of voice and the smile on my face as he told me about his adventure where priceless. Have you heard a voice tell you to slow down and listen? Have you listened to that voice? I learn everyday to try and slow down to hear what really matters. Encouraging and helping others. That is my decision.
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If I can help you or a group/organization you are part of, please let me know.
Escalating Knowledge, Opportunity Awareness and Encouragement that empowers others to rise to any challenge.
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