Think Globally, Act Locally

Help Solve Large World Problems by Taking Small Steps in the Right Direction

A little while ago, a colleague and I were discussing the fact that large, global problems like war, hunger, racism, poverty, environmental degradation, and the like can seem so overwhelming and unmanageable that some folks give up trying to solve them. That's a shame becauase we all can make co

ntributions to solving the world's problems. Part of the key is to start small. Make micromovements by taking small steps in the right direction, focusing on your community, your network, yourself, realizing that your actions impact all of us and have ramifications for our world. Collectively, our small steps make a big difference. You choose whether that is a positive or negative impact.

Here are a few steps you can take locally to address and correct the big global problems we face:

--> Take steps against WAR:
* Wage peace. Remember, peace is not the absence of war.
* Hold your media and elected officials accountable. If you don't like what they're doing, TELL THEM!
* Live ethically even when it's unpopular, uncommon, unexpected or inconvenient. Consider not only what you do, but also what you don't do.
* Strive to behave justly. Remember, no justice, no peace.

--> Take steps against CLASSISM, SEXISM, HOMOPHOPIA, and other unjust forms of DISCRIMINATION:
* Teach and model tolerance of those who are different from (or the same as!) you.
* Consider the role of class in your society. If you don't like it, model something better.
* Make sure your actions reflect your beliefs.
* Learn to communicate precisely so that you can avoid misinterpretation and say what you mean and mean what you say to whomever you want.

--> Take steps against HUNGER, FAMINE and HOMELESSNESS:
* Build a home for someone who needs one. Contact Habitat for Humanity to get started.
* Donate food from your pantry, party or garden to a shelter, food rescue agency or food bank near you. America's Second Harvest can help.
* Make free donations to agencies working in these areas. Use click to donate sites to begin.
* Become a social entrepreneur and find creative ways to solve your community's problems.