It is no exaggeration to say that the state of our world is cause for worry. We are, due to instant communication, all too aware of environmental disasters, overpopulation, corrupt governance, the collapse of basic services, poverty and illness. In fact, you would be excused for believing the world has passed the point of no return and questioning your ambitions for a future that looks bleak and hopeless.
Growing up and trying to make a life in the midst of so many problems can be just too overwhelming. Many people wonder what is the point of applying oneself, when destruction and disaster are just around the corner. These are genuine feelings and should never be ignored; They can quickly consume you and cause deep existential depression.
And yet, history repeatedly reveals evidence of people who have changed the world for the better during the most calamitous and desperate times.
We are no exception.
Throughout history, those who changed their world were those who said: “It is true that I cannot control corrupt politicians, dying whales, inflation, poverty, crime and the disappearance of the rainforests. But I can control my own attitude, my choices and my actions.”
‘Empowerment’ has been a popular slogan these past years. But what is real empowerment? Empowerment is not the same as entitlement. You do not become empowered by what you demand to be given. That’s just more disempowerment.
You become empowered by the choices you make and by accepting responsibility for your choices. You become empowered the moment you stop laying blame and decide to be the best person you can be.
Yes, we have a collective responsibility. That’s how a healthy society functions. But within that, each of us has a different role to play, which is our unique, individual, contributing purpose.
Maybe, when it seems that we are living in the worst of times, that’s the time for you to be the best person you can be. That, after all, is the message behind our President’s “Thuma Mina” (Send me) appeal. No matter your chosen path, be the best dentist you can be, be the best shopkeeper you can be, be the best teacher you can be, be the best builder you can be, be the best gardener you can be.
The world is changed by people like you when you decide to be best you can be.
Heart and Soul Coaching
