It's a Small World After All

Let it be said that this generation is more global than any that has gone before: There is the internet, television, with its news shows, specialty channels and satellite options, countless newspapers, periodicals and the ease of travel. It is no wonder that the old song of the nursery comes to mind, "It's a small world after all". This is especially so with the contemporary teen. Even though many of them have not yet left the comfort of their hometown, they are whisked away, daily, by our global media. They don't need to visit England to see Big Ben: It's now a backdrop for their favourite movie or a computer desktop. Now, my head is not in the sand. I realize people have been able to travel vicariously through films and the like for years. However, what I am aware of is the seemingly small world in which we find ourselves today. It truly is a global village! 'Cosmopolitan' is not just a name of a drink or a magazine anymore. It's an adjective for the way we think, act and feel.

I was able to attend an address given by Stephen Lewis to students at Centre Wellington District High School one year and was amazed at what he shared. Mr. Lewis? address came as a climax to the school?s 'War, youth & peace' studies. The students were very 'aware' of the world events that were discussed. Shared stories were humbling to say the least. As a result, many of the students were stirred with compassion and were motivated to act. This brings me to my point: Action must always be valued over Awareness. On any given day in South Western Ontario, someone is suffering: lack of food, abuse, neglect, disease, etc. Now, if we take this information to heart, or tuck it away in the mental file cabinet, we are aware ~ albeit in a small way, but aware notwithstanding. On the other hand, if we take this information, let it percolate and allow it to work inside us ? as much as I believe Mr. Lewis had us doing during his address, we may feel an appropriate reaction ? Motivation. It is here that many of us go wrong. What should we do with our awareness?

I began the article with a statement that this generation is more global-minded than any that have gone before. This is an amazing resource that we must tap in order to see the world change. As the saying goes, "Think globally, act locally". This is a great, if sometimes an over-used sentiment. What a wonderful place to start: right here where we live! Right here where we can make a difference in the lives of people around us! We have sent a human into space, but often we are afraid to talk to our neighbours next door. Parents and teachers, talk with your students, and don't discourage their excitement or desire to change the world. It is part of a great time in their lives. It's natural! I happen to know of one Man in particular who tapped into the lives of 12 young people 2000 years ago and the ripple effects of their work are still going! Young people are not just the future. They are the ?here and now?! They are the present. If they can contribute anything to the world, let it begin here. It may not be easy, but in the words of a popular song, "Nothing worth having comes without some kind of fight". Our future is worth the fight.