Copyright Jim Willis 2001
If you worry that you have not made a difference, you
have, for only those who do not worry about it have not. If you feel
overwhelmed, if the weight of problems is too heavy to bear, remember it
is a shared burden and the strength of numbers can accomplish much.
If you think society and government are blind, it only
serves to remind that we need to change one mind at a time, one law
after another. We effect change by cooperation, not by isolation. If you
consider that we cannot save them all, and what difference does one
make?, you ought to know the joy of the one who is saved. Mourn those we
cannot save. It is a eulogy to their being. Do not let their loss be in
vain.
Be kind to yourself, remember your needs and those of
your family and friends of every species. If you give everything, what
will you have left for yourself, or for them? Strive to be happy and
healthy. You are needed. Achieving balance in life is a lifelong
struggle. We who help those who do not have all that they need should be
among the most grateful for what we have.
Be proud of your accomplishments, not your opinions. The
quality of your efforts is more important than the quantity. Forgive
your own deficiencies -- sometimes your caring is sufficient. Everyone
can do something, it is up to you to do the thing you can. A kind word
and a gentle touch can change a life.
If a seething anger wells up within you, because people
are the problem, remember your humanity and that people are also the
solution. Concentrate on specific needs, pay attention to the individual
-- they make up the whole.
See beyond the unlovable, the unattractive, the impure
and the wounded -- see that their spirit is as deserving as the rest.
Help them heal. Their eyes are windows to their soul and the mirror of
your sincerity. All species, all beings, share this Earth in a chain of
life.
Care more about what makes us alike than what separates
us. Policies, rules and regulations are not infallible. Apply them
judiciously, interpret them wisely. No decision based purely on money is
ever the right one. Listen to your heart.
Sometimes we have to do that which we are most afraid
of. Be true to yourself and your beliefs. Family may abandon you,
friends may disappoint you, strangers will ridicule you. People shun
what they do not understand. Help them to understand -- kindly, softly,
gently. Those who do not respect all life are to be pitied. Often the
wrongdoer is as in need of help as his victims. Forgive, then teach by
example.
Educate yourself or you cannot hope to teach others. No
action based in hatred is ever right and anger drowns out wisdom. Yours
may be a voice crying in the wilderness, make it a voice to be
respected. Listen more than you talk, be courteous and reliable. Learn
to ask for help. Never waiver from the truth. Know that it takes a lot
of strength to cry and with every defeat, we learn.
All Creation celebrates that which is in its own best
interest. The Children are our hope -- nurture them. Nature is our
legacy -- protect it. The Animals are our brethren -- learn from them.
Your rewards will not be material, but they will be meaningful, and the
courage of your convictions can survive anything.
We are small boats cast adrift on a cruel sea, but
someday the tide will turn toward a safe harbor. No matter how dark the
storm clouds, or deep the pain of heartbreak -- never forget:
We are their heroes.
~ Dedicated to all who have worked for change. May your
efforts be blessed. You have made a difference.
Go on to Congressional
Awards Banquet
Return to 30 May 2001 Issue
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