I'm really into quotes (and own a book full of them) because they have the ability to convey powerful thoughts in just a few words. You can sit through a lengthy talk or boring conversation and afterwards you can't remember a damn thing the speaker said. Sometimes, it's only one phrase that sticks in your mind.
Mahatma Ghandi said "You must be the change you want to see in the world." This came to mind after reading an exchange on Majonzi's blog with one person accusing another tribe of being racist/tribalistic. When either of these topics is brought up, a passionate discussion is sure to follow. Unfortunately, it often ends in people attacking and accusing each other. Often, the accusers are guilty of the same crime they're trying to advocate against. Or maybe they're just contributing to the problem because all they want to do is complain, point fingers at others, and refuse to be part of the solution. Of course, it's hard not to take things personal when an issue hits close to home. One can't always separate logic and emotions. But until we collectively take responsibility for all that holds us back, there's no way we can solve the problem. Although as we know, most problems in life don't resemble mathematic problems, where you can always apply a formula and come up with a result. Problems are often a work in progress where you never really get done. Or like education where you can study something for years, become an expert on it but yet be utterly clueless about a variety of other subjects. New discoveries also come up in your own field so you'll constantly learn new things. Anyway, back to my main point, idealistic as it may be, which is for us to be part of the solution. How? That's for each of us to figure out.
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6 comments:
Another quote I like that would go well with yours for today is, "Don't talk about it. Be about it" I don't know who said it first, but when I read it I found it made much sense, since we do much talking and little doing, ending up with plenty of hot purposeless gas.
It takes a 'humanely mature' person to be ok with and respect another...with that maturity, I believe, comes self-understanding so that one does'nt feel like they have to attack, oppress, abuse or whatever it is they do to another to keep them in an 'ism' box...
Some of these aggresions and disagreemnts are as a results of people trying to conceal their weaknesses and not admitting guilt. Our leaders lead on this one by example. That assures most of use that we never resolve even the most basic of arguments.
I love quotes too, they let me look at issues from a fresh perspective.
I do agree with people being about it as opposed to talking about it, which sadly happens most of the time.
As for the tribal arguement. when two people talk and no-one wants to hear the other you end up with alot of hot air and tension. At the end of the day that exchange solved nothing.
Enough of that sanctimounis BS. You are exacerbating the underlying political problem the country is now facing. We are quick to come here and preach water but when it comes to voting..you will vote for Kibaki or Uhuru because he is a Kikuyu. Take a doze of your own pill - be about it and stop voting for people just because they are kikuyu you are ruining kenya with your two-faced countenance.
@Egm,
I like that quote!
@Quintessence,
You're so right about self-understanding. Those who constantly lash out at others are obviously lacking something in themselves.
@Stackofstiffys,
Those weaknesses are so obvious to the rest of us. But when they're stuck in denial, there's no chance of resolving anything.
@Acolyte,
There's always something that a person can do to support their ideas. Arguments that don't lead to any insights are just pointless. No matter how strongly one believes in an idea, looking at it from the opposing perspective is sure to teach and sensitize one. But some people are so rigid they won't consider anything alternative.
@Anon,
Politics in Kenya are very tribalistic. But factors like class and the economy also affect the way people vote. For example, non-Kikuyus may vote for Uhuru or Kibaki because their businesses will prosper more under their rule. Inter-tribal alliances are made when people realize they can gain more power that way.
Your personal attack on my supposed voting preferences merely amuse me. You've just illustrated one of the points I was making. Pointing a finger at me will not change the identity of the residents of State House or Parliament. If one is trying to win people over to their cause, one needs to have solid ideas and a plan that includes more than a personal vendetta against a tribe.
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