Be the change you want to see!

In the last one week, I have come across many who have given up all hope for good to prevail over evil, and for one to be successful in life and living without imbibing the prevailing negative values in society.  

On enquiry, they have come to this conclusion based on failure of "leaders" who do not practice what they preach, unavailability of bosses who are selfless in positions of authority and continuing impunity and lack of accountability practically in all facets of life, spirituality inclusive.

Without any pretense to perfection, and while one tree cannot make a forest, I posit that there is significant power and momentum that can be ignited by one person. As the saying goes, "the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing".

The world would not have been better without the initiatives of people like Mother Theresa, Steve Jobs, Abraham Lincoln, Mohammed Ali, Nelson Mandela, Gandhi, Samuel Ajayi Crowther and in Nigeria, Fola Adeola (Banking), Chris Ubosi (Radio Broadcast), Prof. Pat Utomi (Education) and Gani Fawehinmi (Public Advocacy) each of who led the change they desired in specific areas.

So, do not be overwhelmed by the enormity of the problems. Start with what you can influence and change within your sphere of influence including within YOU. Yes, start with changing you. Even light that always triumphs darkness is limited to the capacity of the light. That is why candlelight, a lantern, electric light and the sun have differing width of coverage. 

"Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing." - Muhammad Ali

Trust me, choosing to stand out to make a difference can be lonely and frustrating. You will be called names and ridiculed, but be encouraged by the fact that "strong people don't put others down ... they lift them up". So, you're in good company with the positive role models I listed above.

While It is contrary to human nature to lay down our lives for others, but there in lies the true purpose for life and living.

So, go out there and be the change you want to see.