Can we make a difference? Historian Eugen Rosenstock-Huessy, whose writings about voluntary work service influenced the development of the Peace Corps. suggests that thinking about it may not be the right approach. He feels that we have been overly influenced by Descartes – “I think, therefore I am” -and suggests something fits reality better: “I respond, even though I may be changed.”
Perhaps the first step in making a difference is taking a step down, off the top of the world, away from trying to control. Instead we can take small steps guided by compassion and empathy and love. Living more frugally and less wastefully, working for something we believe in, joining others who are committed to peace and justice, writing letters to Congress – these may not be gigantic steps but they all matter. They are responses. They are saying with actions, “I respond even though I may be changed.”
A friend in Guatemala once gave some tortillas to some street kids. He saw them gather around but was puzzled when they did not eat. They stood and waited while one older boy went to find three little ones who were missing. Only when they were all there did they divide the food and begin to eat. The street kids had learned what highly educated and sophisticated people have to learn over and over. That the empowered community starts very simply, with justice and love and sharing, and with care for the most vulnerable among us.
