Sharing a few thoughts on making a difference, a better world (Updated)
Craig Lock

SHARING A FEW THOUGHTS ON MAKING A DIFFERENCE, A BETTER WORLD -
THE STATE OF THE WORLD and HOW TO CHANGE IT? *

* sorry about all the 'caps' - I'm not shouting in 'net-speak', but
just trying to make the headline stand out (always breaking the rules,
but that's the story of my life!)

Author's Note:
This article (in point form) was largely based upon notes I've taken
from Oprah Winfrey's most uplifting TV program from some years back,
as well as
adding some additional points and thoughts, based on my own view of
the world (and philosophies).
*

But what can a mere I do?

Some personal strategies for achieving a sense of purpose, honesty
and living with integrity. Be motivated by the deepest values in your
life.
Makes for a far more fulfilling life. How do you get a sense of value
in the family?

* Community with God
* Absolute honesty with people (listen to that, politicians)
* Spirit of Service.
* Develop a Mission statement for your life. Doing this gives you a
framework for setting goals.
* Empathy and caring. Take care of yourself then you can reach out and
help others.
* Develop a family mission statement.
Once you have it keep going back to it. This keeps you focussed and on
track. Review from time to time to monitor your progress.

Ask, how are we going to solve problems? Listen to others and their
opinions - more than we talk. Keep quiet. This is why we have 2 ears
and one mouth.
People's biggest need is to feel appreciated.
Don't give up. We ALL have the power to make a difference in the world.
Try to find meaning in an imperfect world. There IS a SPIRITUAL
SOLUTION to any "seeming impossible" problem. "The spiritual is
stronger than any material force, thoughts rule the world."
- the great and inspirational American philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson

Some problems of the world:

* Poverty, hunger and malnutrition
* Disease (endemic), like Aids
* A 'force of Evil' - ie. man's inhumanity to man
* Violence (wars), ethnic violence and divisions, tribal rivalries:
* Countries agression against others, based on either a desire to
control, for power, or perceived FEAR
* Criminality
* Drug addiction
* Cancer
* Aids, Bird Flu, malaria and other epidemics
* Religious and political intolerance,
ie. a lack of tolerance and understanding of other people and other cultures
* Man's lust for power and desire to control others, ie.
acting out of self interest and excessive greed, rather than others
(people, as well as countries)

and so on.

But what can a mere I do about these seemingly insurmountable and
impossible global problems to solve?
You can raise and ignite the public consciousness at a local level
regarding these issues with emotion and passion (and that's what I try
to do through my writings).