Have you ever noticed how the paint often peels on the hoods and roofs of Chevy and GMC vehicles from the mid 90's. I always notice it now, because I know why it happens.
Several years ago, while visiting a friend in Texas, I noticed this phenomenon happening to his vehicle. I asked him why it was happening (his car was only 5 years old at this point). He told me what his friend that worked in the automobile industry told him. Apparently their was some sort of dispute between the union and management. Diplomacy and discussion was getting them nowhere. Finally, when the union had, had enough, they decided to take action.
One by one they lined up the stairs to the enormous vats of paint compounds. And one by one they proceeded to urinate into the vats of paint. Their acts of defiance and joined effort would not be seen right away, but in time, the painted areas that experienced the most heat would eventually crack and flake away.
The point of this story, is not to speak for or against unions. What happened that fateful day was that a group of people felt like they weren't being heard. So banded together, they realized that though they did not have any control, they did have power.
We often feel as though the decisions we make can't really make a difference. We believe that the governments, corporations, and military leaders have power and cannot be changed. However, I am beginning to think otherwise. I am beginning to believe that a little piss in the pot can make all the difference. I believe calling your congressman when a vote comes up that you feel strongly about can make a difference, I believe supporting one.org and other humanitarian organizations can make a difference. I believe what you purchase can make a difference, for as the back of The Better World Shopping Guide says, "every dollar you spend is a vote for the world you want to live in". And lastly, I believe adopting or mentoring a child in poverty can make all the difference in the world.
And because I like to tug at heart strings when I can, here is a guilty pleasure of mine and an apt song for closing out today's blog.
Several years ago, while visiting a friend in Texas, I noticed this phenomenon happening to his vehicle. I asked him why it was happening (his car was only 5 years old at this point). He told me what his friend that worked in the automobile industry told him. Apparently their was some sort of dispute between the union and management. Diplomacy and discussion was getting them nowhere. Finally, when the union had, had enough, they decided to take action.
One by one they lined up the stairs to the enormous vats of paint compounds. And one by one they proceeded to urinate into the vats of paint. Their acts of defiance and joined effort would not be seen right away, but in time, the painted areas that experienced the most heat would eventually crack and flake away.
The point of this story, is not to speak for or against unions. What happened that fateful day was that a group of people felt like they weren't being heard. So banded together, they realized that though they did not have any control, they did have power.
We often feel as though the decisions we make can't really make a difference. We believe that the governments, corporations, and military leaders have power and cannot be changed. However, I am beginning to think otherwise. I am beginning to believe that a little piss in the pot can make all the difference. I believe calling your congressman when a vote comes up that you feel strongly about can make a difference, I believe supporting one.org and other humanitarian organizations can make a difference. I believe what you purchase can make a difference, for as the back of The Better World Shopping Guide says, "every dollar you spend is a vote for the world you want to live in". And lastly, I believe adopting or mentoring a child in poverty can make all the difference in the world.
And because I like to tug at heart strings when I can, here is a guilty pleasure of mine and an apt song for closing out today's blog.
“Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead
naw, post all the songs you want. this one makes me smile much. i will keep it in mind as 1 of the 4 for for the TwoCor Thanksgiving Slideshow. That's were it goes. Thanks for the reminder to hope.
ReplyDeleteIt really sucks that you're not in house church anymore - no guilt trip, just wanted to tell you.