A few days ago, one of my friends was talking about
various personal problems in life. How they have blocked his scope of social
activism. Then another friend said, there are various obstacles no
doubt. In economic, social, cultural and political life. Also,
in personal lives. But activists have to surmount the barricades. Problems can be utilised for
self-cultivation and preparation.
He gave an example from his personal
experience. Even a physically challenged person can transform his/her handicap into an equivalent asset or
advantage. He has acute back pain. It is a nerve-related disease. So the doctor
told him to do some orthopaedic exercise daily twice. It takes a total of one
hour daily. But if he doesn't do it, it will hamper his normal moving capacity.
Then he was depressed. It's a big waste of time, he thought. But after a few
days, he tried to utilise the time. Started listening to audiobooks when doing
those special exercises. For that, he used a cordless Bluetooth device
connected to his mobile phone.
This now helps him to read at least one book
weekly. As he cannot do any other thing while doing the exercise, he is forced
to form a reading habit. Otherwise, in a daily hurry, he would not be
able to manage the time. Today he feels blessed. He can increase his knowledge
and outlook. It helps him in every sphere of life including activism.
As we all know, there are not only personal
troubles. At present the whole world is facing various complex problems.
Socio-economic, political, cultural, environmental etc. The consequences can be disastrous, if
not solved immediately.
According to a 2024 report by Oxfam, the wealth of the five richest
individuals has doubled since 2020. While five billion people have become
poorer in "decade of division." That organisation
also informed last year that the richest 1% now possess nearly double the wealth of the rest
of the world combined.
Such poverty and various kinds of discrimination
are the result of the current unhealthy system. But there are also many
progressive movements active in various parts of the globe. They are trying to
take the initiative to solve these crises. Some of them want radical change -
systemic transformation. Aim at an alternative system. Which can ensure more
egalitarian human development. Others demand reforms.
Reforms may be partial. They have limitations. It
can be one-sided too. But among them, there can be progressive elements.
Those who sincerely want positive changes must be
generally considered as progressive elements. But there are also other
elements. They only use progressive phrases. But do otherwise. They actually
want to fool others to gain personal importance. When a situation demands
firmness, they just surrender and run for vested interest.
Progressive people can be activists. But all places
are not similarly suitable for such work. What can they do? How can they
contribute?
In their country/locality, if there are progressive
movements present, then they can simply join them. Donate, and participate
in activities and campaigns. Also, subscribe to related literature.
Some activists may be not only progressive but also
radical-minded. They should find that type of organisation. But if such bodies
are absent there. They can join at least some organisations where general
people are involved. That may not even be a fully progressive body. There can
be some other elements too. But they should gather experience and efficiency
through participating there. Can try to solve people's real problems and
educate them. Gather experience and skill.
Activists cannot always remain in a small circle of
like-minded people. But they must try to influence millions. It cannot be done
in one day. But a lengthy process, we all know.
Those who want deep structural changes, have to face
systemic problems. Must aim to build a new alternative system in future. Which
is a gigantic task. Preparing for that is essential.
As history teaches us, to challenge the system,
activists must prepare themselves. Gather great mental and physical strength.
Work continuously to be very strong. Be skillful and acquire specialised
knowledge. For that, they must do self-cultivation. Should also build
powerful organisations and bodies.
Every activist must have two most important
qualities as some great progressive leaders pointed out. Firstly, full
dedication to his/her cause. Which requires the development of proper
consciousness through special education. Practical training for
activists.
Secondly, efficiency in his/her field of
work. It includes business-like professional expertise and mastery of using
technology too. Both this dedication to his/her ideas and expertise must be
properly combined.
Great progressive and radical leaders discussed
their lives, experiences and activities in their writings. We can consult
such literature. Also, should read their biographies. General Motivational
literature can also present various practical tools. But their maximum focus is
generally on personal gains. So, all their suggestions cannot be mechanically
and indiscriminately absorbed.
28/04/24
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