2008 Woodie Awards
A Demonstration of Care
Lynae Cook
Issue date: 9/12/07 Section: Opinion
Everyone has feelings and beliefs regarding "isms." Racism, consumerism, capitalism and materialism are just a few, and the list goes on. I can't think of many of them that are cherished or desirable. In fact, most of them are generally acknowledged as despicable. Yet somehow, they are prevalent and permeate our daily lives.
The prevalence of these generally disliked subjects raises a question, not of "why," but "when?" At what point will we draw the line? I don't think it's an obscene idea or question. When will there be a major shift in the status quo, or even a revolution?
Of course every now and then a few individuals get worked up enough to change their lives and fight for a cause, but the majority of the population accepts their lives and daily frustrations for what they are. A verbal disagreement may take place on occasion, maybe even an argument or some other form of rebellion, but when will the major movement take place?
I understand the fear of 'losing it all' and possibly even for seemingly nothing. But if a person deals with the consequences in order to make the world a better place, losing material objects should be worth it. Even if no major shift is seen immediately, planting a seed of change will not go unnoticed.
What will it take for people to quit their jobs and give up their own selfish desires and pleasures for the greater good?
I will even venture to say that I don't really care about the movement itself. Of course I want the world to be a better place, but "better" in my eyes may be different than "better" according to someone else. What I'm really hoping for is a spark, or even a fire; an absence of impartiality.
It would be fantastic to see people as gung-ho about a particular movement as they are during rallies or politically-minded concerts. While I definitely don't encourage any violent or hurtful extremities, I'm not encouraging any more war or brutality. All I'm encouraging is care.
The prevalence of these generally disliked subjects raises a question, not of "why," but "when?" At what point will we draw the line? I don't think it's an obscene idea or question. When will there be a major shift in the status quo, or even a revolution?
Of course every now and then a few individuals get worked up enough to change their lives and fight for a cause, but the majority of the population accepts their lives and daily frustrations for what they are. A verbal disagreement may take place on occasion, maybe even an argument or some other form of rebellion, but when will the major movement take place?
I understand the fear of 'losing it all' and possibly even for seemingly nothing. But if a person deals with the consequences in order to make the world a better place, losing material objects should be worth it. Even if no major shift is seen immediately, planting a seed of change will not go unnoticed.
What will it take for people to quit their jobs and give up their own selfish desires and pleasures for the greater good?
I will even venture to say that I don't really care about the movement itself. Of course I want the world to be a better place, but "better" in my eyes may be different than "better" according to someone else. What I'm really hoping for is a spark, or even a fire; an absence of impartiality.
It would be fantastic to see people as gung-ho about a particular movement as they are during rallies or politically-minded concerts. While I definitely don't encourage any violent or hurtful extremities, I'm not encouraging any more war or brutality. All I'm encouraging is care.
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