Giving It To You Straight: Change the World

When I was in my early twenties, I was determined to save the world. An idealist from the get-go, there was no doubt I could single-handedly make a real difference. I worked endlessly for worthwhile causes, fought with conviction for anything I believed in, and even joined a sit-in at Cal State Northridge to listen to the rants and raves of Jane Fonda. Everything made sense back then, and no undertaking was too great.

Of course, as I got older, reality reared its ugly head, and I was forced to grasp the inevitable—changing the world might be a bit more difficult than anticipated. I reluctantly watched my headstrong ideals slip away, being taken over by practical necessities, like working to support myself. Before I knew it, life had gotten in the way, and my once powerful strides to bring about change were fading into memories.

I now know it doesn’t have to be that way. As many years have passed, I’ve been forced to mature and maybe even gain a bit of wisdom. Although I’ve kicked and fought most of the way, I’ve learned that simple change, taken in baby steps, can be as important as ambitious, enormous deeds.

There are so many accomplishments we can carry out each day to continue our inner quest. We can stand up for what we believe in, use our strengths to work with and inspire children, support our troops and their families, vote and let our voices be heard, give unselfishly to one or more charities, recycle and conserve energy. In other words—give of ourselves.

And there is more. Act using compassion, love, and understanding with everyone, even when the alternative is easier. Smile at strangers, share a look of encouragement, remind someone of his uniqueness. Simply take the time. You never know how a gentle glance or genuine grin will make an impact on someone’s life, but it does. That unforgotten act of kindness is contagious and oh so powerful.

I can’t say that I don’t occasionally miss trying to change the world in one full swoop, but aging does have its benefits. I now recognize that small gestures can be as effective as the huge demonstrations I attended over 30 years ago. I haven’t given up. I’ve merely come to the realization that there is more than one way to save the world.

Lisa Martin owns Martin-McLean Literary Associates LLC. She represents established authors as well as new writers.