I have been keenly aware of my privilege lately. I am fortunate to have a loving family, a warm, welcoming home, good neighbors, and enough money to pay the bills. This is privilege. I want the same privilege for everyone in our country--I don't want people to struggle, and I do believe we can better manage our resources, economy, time, and energy to better serve all. I believe that a focus on community health and well-being will trickle down to the great diversity of families and individuals included in those communities. Rather than a corportate-focused nation, I want us to be a people-centered nation--the kind of nation that puts the rights, needs, and privileges of the people first.
What can we do and what can I do to make this change?
Live simply
For me, I can live as simply as possible so that I'm not using up more than my share of the resources, wealth, and privilege.
Be generous
I can look for ways to be generous with my time, energy, and resources. What can I do to help others?
Advocate
I will continue to advocate and work for change in our country and my local communities to better serve people in countless ways. Too many of our systems are outdated and inefficient when it comes to helping people live their best possible lives--there is incredible room for improvement. I will advocate for that.
Take care of myself and my family
You can't help others if you don't take good care of yourself and your family--that's essential.
It is essential to recognize your privilege, and then work to extend that privilege to others in ways possible.