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Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Speak Out


None of us have the power to effect big changes. Only when we come together and speak in chorus, we are heard.

Retirees usually take up issues that involve them at this new stage of life, and rightly so. Health Care, pensions, the usual suspects. But we are in a great position to look back at the entire panorama of people needs, all across the globe. We have lived a full life and seen many parts of the world, and we have a unique perspective. We can lend our voices to issues that will improve lives not just for the now, but for future generations.

Joining groups, volunteering our time and expertise, lending a hand in our community, all of these acts go hand in hand with being alive, being a vital member of a community.

Look at President Carter and his wife; they have redefined retirement. Their global initiatives, their compassionate involvement in Habitats for Humanity, their travel and committment to improving the lives of so many people, have been an inspiration to all of us, young and old.

So, join your senior center, the sewing circle, and the garden club. But, don't stop there. Get on the web and join groups that sing your song, whether it is a song about environmental concerns or economic wealth, join and participate with all your heart and health and wealth. Leave a legacy of caring and speaking out; especially in areas where nobody is speaking out; especially in areas where most people fear to go. I'm talking about causes that get you up in the morning, causes that will affect children and others who are not strong enough to speak for themselves.

And stop complaining about the new technology, how it sucks up all our time. Use the same technology for the greater good. Join, and use any and all tools you are comfortable using. Walk to your neighbor's house and discuss common safety, talk to your grandchild about the environment at school, email your friends with updates on environmental sensitive areas in your state. Read, write, speak out. We are fully alive.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Huzzah! It is vital that we seniors not choose to end living before we die. Youth is a time for innovation but we can counsel caution and also give perspective on what hasn't worked - as well as continue the process of change. Ours is a wonderful voice!

Rosaria Williams said...

Rhank you M for your usual support nd quick response. The theme is due to your fantastic idea of giving money for folks to buy animals and becoming self supportive as detailed in your blog, sixtyup.blogspot.com

So, thanks for the idea.

Angela said...

This is a beautiful post, and I will gladly interview you to hear more! Let me think of some good questions, and I will soon come back!

Siobhán said...

A very positive, emjoyable post - thank-you.
And thanks for dropping by novellessness.

Angela said...

Lakeviewer, I sent you an email with my questions to your contact-email, but it was returned! Have you got another one? Can you send it to me at mail@angelaschmidt.com?

Cheryl Cato said...

Very interesting post. I think I am taking a sabbatical from "effecting change". However, I did work with the Democratic party in my county plus made calls to North Carolina prior to the election. I belong to Nat'l Wildlife Federation & Nature Conservancy (must pay new dues soon), but right now I'm not actively involved. Maybe again soon ... thanks for the reminder... sort of a kick in the butt. I'm enjoying your blog...

Ruth said...

It's wonderful what you're doing here. Thank you for your visit to synchronizing in the hubbub.

Rosaria Williams said...

Ruth,

Thanks for visiting. Your blog is inspirational.