An open letter to ALL 100% of us

November 10, 2011

Think about it! We’ve been presented with a win-win opportunity to build on the Occupy Movement. And — really — don’t we all share the “Occupy” vision of a kinder, more sustainable world?

If together we could see everyone as part of the 100%, rather than as “we-versus-them” confrontational camps, then perhaps we can all actually make a difference.

We probably all agree that most things aren’t perfect in this world, either at home or globally. Things can always be better. Let’s pool our energies and good will to find best-practices approaches in critical areas.

Let’s inspire more people to vote in elections, more people to support the food bank, more people to respond to homeless needs, more people to be aware of the challenges and opportunities facing First Nations people. We need more of us to care, to problem solve, to act. Change takes time — let’s make a start. Remember, too, that each of us can make some choices to change our own situation.

Let’s invite people from every segment of our 100% to volunteer time, to sit on boards, to donate to social causes, to think about sustainability in greener terms, to pay attention to what’s happening around them economically, socially, spiritually, politically, and environmentally. We can do better. Complacency doesn’t bring change.

After all, we’re smarter now about human rights, smoking, about drinking and driving, about healthy diets, about our environment. Certainly we are capable of finding ways to inspire, learn, grow, to be more responsible. Let’s be sensitive to those facing challenges whether it’s poverty, illness, addiction, or aging. After all, who among us (the whole 100%) doesn’t face at least one of these issues in our own lives, our own families?

We live in a changing world. How much do we really need for a life of fulfillment? It may be time for all of us to adjust our growing materialism to fit the world’s decreasing resources. What does balanced and sustainable consumption look like for 7 billion people?

Let’s be creative — find ways to spread a message that is hopeful and inspiring, that brings young and old, political leaders, upper, middle and lower income, welfare recipients — everyone — to a heightened awareness, personal involvement, compassion, sharing. Let’s do a better job of looking after each other locally and globally in whatever way fits one’s income, talents, time, or passion.

Let’s occupy the minds of the 100%. Let’s occupy their in-boxes, mail boxes, twitter accounts, and facebook pages. Let’s commit to making our world happier, healthier, & sustainable.

Let’s plan rallies with election candidates, speakers, music, reps from various organizations like Transition House, Cancer Society, etc. Let’s get excited about this amazing opportunity. Let’s get involved.


Tags: Activism, Building Community, Politics