"Today we are redefining the geography of community and accepting shared accountability for common human values. We have the chance to extend the notion that all men are created equal to every human being on the planet. This will require global structures and products we are only beginning to imagine.... Each of us in his or her own way can contribute something by thinking -- and acting -- like a true global citizen. We have only one world for all of us on earth, and the future really is ours to create, in a world we dare to imagine together." -- Jacqueline Novogratz
The change one person can make can seem rather insignificant at times, however the change that person makes can inspire many for generations to come. In order to make the world a better place, the first step that I need to take is to become the best version of myself. While working on qualities of myself that I would like to change, I may inspire others who have noticed the effects of change. These qualities include honesty, respect, empathy, kindness, courage, perseverance, and self-improvement. When Jacqueline Novogratz mentions that every person can contribute something by thinking and acting like a true global citizen, I believe that she is referring to this pursuit of constantly improving aspects of oneself to make themselves a less selfish, more kind, empathetic person. When more people than not begin thinking and acting like a true global citizen, that understands and respects their impact on the world, the future of the earth will become more loving.
I believe that a lot of the problems in the world can be solved by humans becoming less selfish. As more people begin to become self-absorbed, the world begins to feel like a place where every man and woman must fend for themselves. This creates a panic/anxiety mindset which was observed during the pandemic. When the individualistic feeling is heightened, people do not hesitate to take advantage of others and do what they deem must be done in order to protect themselves. However, if people began to become less selfish and more loving, in the event of a catastrophe, people would come together to help each other.
I oftentimes have a cynical view of the future, which involves a dystopian AI controlled society. However, quotes and reminders like The Blue Sweater remind me of the importance of positivity and the impact that change can have in making the world a better place. When I allow myself to submit to the future of a dystopian society, I am failing to do my part in creating a better future for generations to come. I'm not sure that a certain set of actions would make the world a better place, however if people "contribute something by thinking -- and acting -- like a true global citizen", I am certain that the world will become better place.
Friday, April 14, 2023
World We Imagine Part I
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Hi Vincent, this is super interesting! I really appreciate you writing about this and thinking of a potential way to make this issue better. If people were to be more loving, empathetic, and selfless, that would resolve a lot of the issues we see today. This is a point that I have felt before, but oftentimes it seems hopeless. It's easy to say that people should be kinder, but how do you actually influence people to do that? I think to take this a step further it would be interesting to think of ways that we can influence human beings. Maybe a campaign that works with influencers, celebrities, and leaders to preach this message? Maybe an inspirational documentary that highlights the strength of being kind? Or maybe some sort of program that incentivizes kindness through some sort of monetary means.
ReplyDeleteHi, Vincent I really enjoyed reading this and appreciated your take. The idea of starting from within and focusing on becoming a better person first is great. If more people were inspired to do this a real change can be made. By becoming a better more empathetic and less selfish person we can then all take a moment to think about true change we can enact on the world. And become better global citizens along they way. I agree with Daniel a great way take this further could be a social media campaign where this idea of becoming better can be shared and inspire the community.
ReplyDeleteHi Vincent, I definitely agree that in order to enact change we can start with ourselves. We often over look the small way we can begging changing the world because we feel like we need to start big when even small changes have an impact. If everyone was a less selfish and more empathetic the world would be a better place than it is today. Maybe a small way to begin might be to enact change with your close circle and like Daniel and Monica mentioned, maybe do a social media campaign.
ReplyDeleteHey Vincent, I completely agree that in order to make a positive change in the world, we need to be the best we can be. I also like how you included being a global citizen. I also mentioned being less selfish in my post and I agree that it creates more of a competition based life than anything. We are all here for a limited time, and so we might as well enjoy life and be kind to each other. It is easy to lose some faith in the future when we look at all of the negative, but being positive and being a good example to others can really lead to change. I truly believe that what comes around goes around, so there is no negative in being a global citizen and can only improve your well being and that of others.
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