While there are times when it would be much easier to turn a blind eye, when you see the issues first hand, you comprehend the challenges mankind is really facing, it often feels like a losing battle. The reality is most people simply don't care about global issues, survival of endangered species, or the well-being of other people who might be less fortunate...
We may not like it, but can easily start to understand. Self preservation and personal prosperity take precedent over the welfare of other people and planet.
There are many a times when we have thought 'what is the point...', what difference can we really make when the task to improve human values, stop the extinction of earths creatures and improve environmental sustainability seem so monumental, and often an impossible one.
Thankfully, we have met many individuals, such
as the volunteers of Art of Living, Family Services, Global Concern, and many more. We draw inspiration from those who dedicate their lives to being warriors, true warriors, their battles are not fought with guns, rockets, weapons... they fight their battles with their hearts, minds, their will. They are driven to make a difference. They have taken a stand because the ones we elect, put into power, the ones who should be addressing these issues, the ones who are paid to 'govern' seem to have much more important things to do. War, money and power...Political turmoil, corruption accusations, debates with what to do with the estimated $140 billion dollars that have been siphoned out of India... just another day of politics in India...
...meanwhile: 'There are over 11 million street children in India, (Consortium for Street Children). Some are orphans; others have been abused or abandoned by their families. They live in extreme poverty on the streets and railway platforms of India, socially excluded, and survive by begging for food, working in the exploitative informal economy, or find themselves recruited by criminal gangs into invisible labor and brothels.' (from Global Concerns India website)
Even though India has experienced incredible growth over the last several years, experienced much economic prosperity, individuals making a vast amount of wealth, the people of India are still experiencing severe infrastructure, social and environmental challenges.
Poverty, labor exploitation, human trafficking, illiteracy, sanitation, infrastructure development, pollution, street trash, deforestation, urban de-greening... just a few of the challenges the majority of Indians have to deal with on a daily basis. And these issues are not just common to India, they are global challenges.
One must look at political corruption, dysfunction and bickering and even outdated superstitious religious beliefs and practices as sources for the lack of progress in so many areas of society and quality of living.
The Dalai Lama, who we saw live yesterday, said that prayer alone will not resolve these issues, we can not rely on government, only individual action and desire to make a difference.
He went on to say that while India may be leaders in 'Information Technology', they must now master 'Inner Technology'. The ancient knowledge of the Vedas is India's heritage, it is the source of Buddhism, and in many ways all religions have drawn from these sacred teachings. People will argue about which religion is best... the best religion is the one that gives you the faith and courage to be the best you can and to make a difference.
One might ask 'What can I do...?', I simply share what someone wiser than me once said, 'Do what YOU can, do YOUR best, but do something... that is all one can really do.'
Make A Difference,
Beejal Parmar
Congratulations Beejal to you and your family for addressing these issues. I confess the poverty is overwhelming here (not just India, the human condition).
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