This past weekend I attended a workshop with Charles Eisenstein and John Perkins, and re-discovered my inspiration to put forth the vision of the beautiful world that we all know is possible – a world in which caring and justice is the norm. To this aim I would like to share some thoughts about why being an Elder Activist is so important.
Many times people say to me, “Oh no, I’m not an elder. I’m too young!”
I respond, An ELDER is a person who uses their life experience and reflection to
guide their decision-making as they continue their life’s journey.
BUT – some folks don’t see themselves as an activist.
Many times people say to me, “Oh no, I’m not an elder. I’m too young!”
I respond, An ELDER is a person who uses their life experience and reflection to
guide their decision-making as they continue their life’s journey.
BUT – some folks don’t see themselves as an activist.
I was visiting with a friend, and as we talked about our work she asked me, “What is an activist?” It wasn’t so difficult for me to answer:
An ACTIVIST uses their resources, time and energy to
create a more thriving and just world.
“Oh my gosh, then I’m an activist!” she said. She had not seen herself as an activist because she thought that they were just unhappy, angry protesters.
Yes, I must admit that I am angry. I am so angry with inequality and ongoing racism; with the careless way in which we “trash” the planet; and, the lack of decent funding for public education and health care.
But I am also deeply in love with the beautiful planet on which we live, appreciative of all the folks who creatively work to solve the complex issues we face, ecstatic that the sun is out today glistening on newly fallen snow, grateful that I get to do meaningful work.
So, if we put this all together we get,
An ELDER-ACTIVIST is a
person who uses their life experience & reflection,
along with their resources, time and energy,
to create a just and thriving world
as they continue their life’s journey
There are infinite ways in which to be an activist – following our unique passions and talents; caring for others, caring for our planet, weaving the web of interconnectedness that sustains us all.
There are innumerable real opportunities to repair our world. What it takes is an enormous effort, the work of all people -- especially us the elders. As elders we have the common sense, wisdom, resources (networks, skills, passion?) and the inner urge to leave a legacy that we can be proud of.
My vision is that our generation will stand as wise elders -- leading with our hearts, inspiring with our words, and using our resources -- to create a thriving future for all life.
Won’t you join me as an Elder-Activist?
An ACTIVIST uses their resources, time and energy to
create a more thriving and just world.
“Oh my gosh, then I’m an activist!” she said. She had not seen herself as an activist because she thought that they were just unhappy, angry protesters.
Yes, I must admit that I am angry. I am so angry with inequality and ongoing racism; with the careless way in which we “trash” the planet; and, the lack of decent funding for public education and health care.
But I am also deeply in love with the beautiful planet on which we live, appreciative of all the folks who creatively work to solve the complex issues we face, ecstatic that the sun is out today glistening on newly fallen snow, grateful that I get to do meaningful work.
So, if we put this all together we get,
An ELDER-ACTIVIST is a
person who uses their life experience & reflection,
along with their resources, time and energy,
to create a just and thriving world
as they continue their life’s journey
There are infinite ways in which to be an activist – following our unique passions and talents; caring for others, caring for our planet, weaving the web of interconnectedness that sustains us all.
There are innumerable real opportunities to repair our world. What it takes is an enormous effort, the work of all people -- especially us the elders. As elders we have the common sense, wisdom, resources (networks, skills, passion?) and the inner urge to leave a legacy that we can be proud of.
My vision is that our generation will stand as wise elders -- leading with our hearts, inspiring with our words, and using our resources -- to create a thriving future for all life.
Won’t you join me as an Elder-Activist?
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