CHANGERS
Don't think, for even a moment, that you are totally free from others about you!
Far too many among us get such an idea, it seems. Then, some come to believe they are some one set apart from all others. They are also confident that the reason for their having been selected is because they are in possession of stellar qualities of character for which others have only striven.
Ambition, of course, and Hope for betterment are good guide lines to keep in mind, but to think that we have attained a measure of excellence over and above that of others around us is an illusion which can prove to be costly to the individual who deceives himself or herself in that manner.
How many much-needed reformations have either been delayed or caused to fail because of excess fervor by someone among those working to bring about the desired change?
In our time we see “protesters” who engage in conduct ranging to the very edge of anarchy supposed to bring about what they call “Peace.”... Chaos to create order, wry actions, pointless pontifications and even cheap trickery. They will expend time, money and effort to bring about lawless climes to engender lawfulness to effect changes which will work to their ultimate disadvantage by alienating the very people of attainment, substance, ability and real holdings who can help support and sustain the ideal portions of their ideas ...their true concepts.
Reformers who use the easy method of getting others to march up and down the street bearing placards and shouting inane slogans, purposely disturbing the well-being of all, hindering the normal flow of traffic and calling forth the worst and most bestial instincts of man's past eons of depravity, do us all a great dis-service.
Such a stance leads to mob action, to recklessness and abandonment of decency and of fair play. What is the great merit of such plans of action ? Wherein lies the wisdom of opposing one's own stated ideals? Far better to seek the steadier platform of legislative halls, or even the venue of the soap box disclaimer in a public area.
True reform, I feel, suffers great loss today because of adverse affects of such tantrum tactics.
Vital energies are consumed needlessly as such attempts are made to dramatize need. Genuine need is apparent to any thinking, observing citizen and it is past time for reformers and protesters to align themselves with humanity instead upon standing in opposition - pathetically alone.
Reformers and Protesters too often leave out the main ingredient in their recipes seeking change. They must learn to stir in generous quantities of The People.
A.L.M. November 11, 2002 [c450 wds]
