Changing the World

Margaret Mead is often quoted saying, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." This quotation both inspires me and frightens me.

It gives limitless faith that the world can be changed and indeed has been changed by a few individuals. But it seems to always be the question of changed in what way? Whether for good or ill, the answer will be changed to be how I see fit. This means an array of different things. But, more problematic is that this quotation isn't true. It misleads readers into believing a small group of determined people can "change the world" without consent from anyone else.

Yes, a small group can 'start' to change the world but will never to be ultimately finish. Stakeholders, investors, believers, and messengers will always be necessary. It is a question of scale and to change the world you will not, cannot do it with a small group.

More potent to me is this tale. “When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation. When I found I couldn’t change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn’t change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family. Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world.” This tale is not inspiring. It expounds hard work and time. But I believe this is where the truth lies.

Yes, a small group of devoted people can begin to change the world but only because they changed themselves and affected those around them. Your life needs to be led differently because changing the world starts with a way of life and a dream. After that you just need to tell people.