Ryan White, for instance, was accidentally infected with the HIV virus during a blood transfusion to treat his hemophiliac disease. Ryan did not let this misfortune deter him rather it made him a spokesman on behalf of others infected with HIV by humanizing the disease AIDS with his story.
Another power of one can be seen in the life of Nelson Mandela after spending 27 years in jail as a political dissenter of the Apartheid government of South Africa, he rose to become president of that nation and did not seek vengeance rather he used his story to bring South Africans together. His gentleness and forgiving spirit changed a country and its people forever.
Angelina Jolie made a difference in the struggle in Darfur by using her fame to bring attention to the genocide in that region. Not too many people with her celebrity status would volunteer to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves, however Angelina made this cause her life's mission. She stood up against a nation in the genocide of its people.
Making a difference in the lives of others is what this life is truly about. Self-glorification, pride and selfishness avails nothing worthwhile, but the opposite gives life its meaning. Humanity is a social phenomenon, children grow up with an innate desire for connection. We are biologically and socially inter-connected. We are all the same and share the same living space - earth. We are not Caucasoid, not Mongoloid, not Africanoid or aborigines but are all of the human race. Why then a desire for separateness? Why a desire for self-importance? Our genotype shows 46 chromosomes even though our phenotype varies. "In unity is strength" then why a desire to break us down into different classifications which ultimately creates dvision and disharmony among humanity.
ReplyDeleteRather emphasis ought to be placed on knowing who we are and how/where we fit in this world. This meaningful pursuit provides the fullness of life that cannot be achieved through vain attempts of personal glorification. Mandela, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr. and others are perfect examples of people who knew who they are and there place in this world. Their endeavors were to build up humanity and not tear down the fragile harmony that exists in it.
Good job Donna on bringing this sobering thought of altruism to light. I would have truly enjoyed your personal story on the contribution that you have made to further this cause.
Peace and Love
Raphael
Wow, what an enlightening comment! Thank you for your support. I appreciate your input. Stay tuned for more changes.
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