Global Citizens
The world is becoming smaller through
advancing technology. Much more of the world is visible thanks to a multi-media
landscape that invites us to become global citizens. Some step cautiously and
others bound in to capture intriguing new information. Religion, politics and
culture have often been the protagonists separating one country from another.
Highly ridged beliefs do not allow the freedom to meet people of other cultures
without a sense of distrust! We share this magnificent planet but are still
working through the differences that divide us. Empathy and awareness are
needed to see that most people around the world want the same thing; a place to
live in safety, food on the table, the love of a family, a purpose to their
life and a healthy future.
Access to information has been
limited over the centuries, of course there have been libraries for numerous
centuries, but many could not read or did not have access. Now there is up to
the minute updates from around the world. Injustices that ask for attention
quickly burst into view! We are sickened by what some are capable of, we feel
compassion for those that are suffering, but most often it’s a sort of
ignorance that lets us down as a united people. The horrors of the world can
either unite humanity or make the rift wider, depending on ideological beliefs
and whether events are natural or belong to intent.
People are born in different nations
with various cultural backgrounds! No one can firmly give a reason why some are
born in poverty while others seem to have all that they need; but there are things
to be learned in both circumstances. Learning about neighbouring traditions
through quality information and experience is a crucial step in removing
restrictive barriers. Dare to read the tenants of another religion, learn about
cultural etiquette, go to a local festival, and if the funds allow it take an
overseas holiday to get the full experience. Maybe the division isn’t that
wide?
In order to become global citizens
prejudices must be removed. Even those from major world wars are starting to
see their enemies in a different light, especially if they were conscripted and
also had families they hoped to return to. War is often a trigger from fear and
xenophobic attitudes that sometimes gets perpetuated down through the
generations. In order for people of different beliefs and cultures to get along
we need to start with our children, they need to know that looking different,
or having special ways of doing things is not so strange, but rather a unique
expression of who they are! The world is made up of many nations who are quite
unique in a wonderful way. Lessening the culture shock is a good place to
start.
Schools have always taught history
and geography; time restraints naturally limit how much teachers can cover, but
it is the spiritual or religious beliefs of other nations that are often left
out. This is because many schools have a preferred religion within the
curriculum which extends from the dominate beliefs of each country. In a
beautiful sweep of consciousness change is occurring in the nations that have a
multi-cultural population or outlook. Giving equality a helping hand certainly
removes layers of uncertainty. Young minds are now learning in an atmosphere
free of barriers. A person is just a
person till you know the differences that make them irreplaceable! Education and spiritual awareness are key to
living a life of peaceful satisfaction.
It’s not necessary to travel the
planet to be a worldly individual, though holidaying or living in other
countries certainly helps – you are a global citizen each time you venture into
the world of others. You’re a worldly and aware individual
when you participate in public events in your community. There are many public
events that you can participate in where you can express your beliefs; talks,
workshops, marches, organisations and fundraisers can be a good place to start.
If some of these feel too political try environmental appreciation with tree
planting days, clean-up events or visit a national park, you never know who you
will meet! You can also help by volunteering time to help the homeless, visit
nursing homes, join groups that assist refugees or any other community projects
that have your attention.
Cultural diversity is something to
celebrate, it only divide’s when people believe that their culture, religion,
politics or genetic heritage sits above all others. These rigid beliefs create
a toxic environment that gets passed down through the generations. Releasing
these stereotypical views is easier in countries without current conflicts and
some countries are finding it harder to break these cycles of hostility. Those
in a distant viewing position are naturally appalled that wars and attacks on
the innocent can still rage in a modern world where so many nations of people
have become friends. United peaceful outcomes are created by strong, patient
and tolerant individuals.
Understanding arrives when nations
know that they are unique, but have an outward desire to learn about each
other. When we help each other with the natural disasters and food shortages
that affect our planet we are indeed global citizens. The more clarity we
obtain – the better life will be. Then we are able to feel at ease with all
nations as egocentric motives dwindle. No nation is better than another; no one
can stand in power and say they are better than the rest; that is where true
ignorance lies. The global citizen sees beyond these adolescent rumblings to a
place where peace resides. Just a little effort in understanding can make a
surprising difference.
Sharon
D Bush
Writer Historian
Artisan Sage
Instagram: THESAGE00
or SACRED_LIVING
Email:
the.sage.sb@gmail.com
Book: The Scrolls of
Wisdom, philosophical/spiritual self-help book finished (on the final edit
– looking for publishers).
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