Change the World? Is it possible?
I may be wrong, but I believe that every minimally idealistic individual has dreamed of one day being able to change the world (for the better, of course), in some aspect or perspective. Such inspiration can manifest itself through different channels of expression. It can be materialized by revolutionary action supported by some ideological cause, by material help to a certain philanthropic entity, by a trip to some economically less privileged country to treat desperate souls, or even simply by the ethically incorruptible, correct and exemplary exercise of a profession. In fact, the way to manifest such idealism varies from individual to individual, and its methods can range from the most loving to the most violent, depending on who is manifesting it and how they choose to manifest it.
Nevertheless, it is common to observe that such idealistic efforts, sooner or later, end up cooling down, losing their momentum, fatigued by the constant act of stepping on the hard and cold floor of reality. The intent of ideological revolution does not eradicate suffering (usually only exacerbates it), humanitarian aid does not eliminate misery, the ethical example does not find the expected echoes or applause. And then, disillusionment and frustration invade our chests, and we abandon the fight, certain that the world has no solution, and we can only surrender.
However, I would like to propose an alternative approach to this noble impulse of making the world a better place, an approach that does not necessarily depend on the existence of a more exacerbated idealism. In fact, it is a much simpler approach that, if applied by most people, would certainly reform our reality. It is the concept of changing the tangible world.
In my book Flowers on the Balcony, I briefly addressed this concept in the text "Making a Difference", and here I review it, seeking to make it a bit more practical and connecting it with another concept, this one a little more spiritually elevated, which is that of loving your neighbor, an emblematic commandment of the "Man of Nazareth".
What we call "our world" can be defined by the various spheres of influence we possess, with our homes and families being the most fundamental starting point. Soon after, we expand this perimeter to our friendships, our schools, our work environments, our associations, until finally our influence becomes more rarefied, limited to those sporadic encounters with more occasional professional contacts and random interactions with strangers on the streets and shopping centers.
This is our tangible world, in which, day after day, we interact with people around us, and where opportunities to positively influence this limited universe are renewed. This world is the one that is at our reach to change, and we do it daily, whether consciously or unconsciously. And it is in this particular that the invocation of loving one's neighbor will make all the difference.
Some time ago I heard a phrase that made me re-signify these daily interactions, raising them to a new and even more significant level. On the path between me and God, there is my neighbor. In other words, what this powerful phrase suggests is that my path to God is through my interactions with my neighbor, whoever he may be. And by applying the exercise of love in each of these relationships, I not only get closer to God, but also provoke in this tangible world of mine, a true revolution, changing it for the better a little every day. Let's look at some examples.
In the family circle is where individual limitations are usually most evident, since stripped of our social masks, our selfishness and impatience are more crudely manifested. However, if we equip ourselves with a minimum level of intentionality, we can apply to each of the relationships involved therein, the use of indulgence, charity and forgiveness, indispensable components for a healthy and loving home. If the spouse goes through a moment of agitation, let's try to be patient and help in some way. If children are going through a difficult moment in their transition to the adult world, let us do our best to guide them through dialogue, and why not, lovingly discipline them when necessary. It is within the family that our greatest loving challenges present themselves, but it will also be there, where we will make the most difference in our tangible world. A difference that, through our children, could last for many years, even surviving our existence.
Intentionality will also be required when we analyze our positive influence in the wider circles of friendships, neighborhoods, associations, and work environment. We deal with needy, insecure and afflicted souls every day, and our loving attitude will be constantly demanded, whether through the exercise of understanding, empathy, a friendly ear and tolerance of the limitations of others. We are all imperfect beings, and the application of love for others in these daily interactions can have a healing effect, not only in relationships, but also in the core of each human being around us, elevating our tangible world to a higher level of contentment.
Finally, we are left with the unexpected contacts of everyday life, with those who cross our paths occasionally, but who can also benefit from a smile, an affectionate greeting, and a more humane treatment.
The tangible world is our area of influence. It is "our" world. And making it better is a daily exercise, which will never cease to be our unique, individual and non-transferable responsibility. It is not a question of ideology. It is a matter of loving responsibility, determined by the "Master of Masters" in the form of a commandment almost two thousand years ago. All that is left for us to do is obey it and apply it.
