"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world, indeed it's the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead's words speak with the same potency today as our world is realizing itself into being again. The pandemic has shaken all structures and conditionings, and continues clearing mirages that have worn pride of ownership with some hardened precedents of separation and struggle for way too long; giving us enough validation for believing that when this all will be over, we would have become far more resilient to the challenges of the future. As goes the saying, "creativity thrives in chaos," hopefully, we have been using this crisis as an opportunity; letting go of some detrimental patterns and embracing some fresh positive ones for the sake of a flourishing humanity, not disparity. A post-pandemic world is knocking at our doors to clear the clutter after a good hard look at some social constructs that have been claiming all aspects of our well-being. Natural human rights believe that the strength of a community lies in its humanity as being a part of a bio-diverse, inter-dependent network, empowered by a collective conscience celebrating every unique authenticity nurturing strength with-in a whole. The pandemic has encouraged all to go back to the basics, and cultivate ourselves, not just for the self, but for our families, communities, and the collective we all belong to. Over time, human insecurities have continued rising, owing may be, to the rapid pace of change in all areas of life, sometimes creating a sense of alienation, for the lack of oneness that is within-out at a constance always, as long as we allow this liberation. This sense of alienation and insecurity appearing as power struggles, leads to major dis-contentment and loss as a whole. For instance, if the world community would have come together sooner and shared more timely beneficial information with the interest of the collective at heart, this trust and understanding would have saved a lot of chaos and irrevocable loss, but we are all learning, and demystifying our own shortcomings and at the same, our innate power as one with source, to create our realities. Prioritizing action over closed conversations is not a need felt just today, but has been poking through the shrugs of complacency for generations now. Mutual dialogues and exchange are important for sustained development, but simply talking and not seeing the real intent through with implementation, is regressive. Our planet has been experiencing a dystopian state of being, however, people are finding more clarity in original ways to ensure a transformation of this world into a more sustainable and resilient one they envision, with more focus on peace-keeping and restoring well-being than missiles. What is understood by development now, is changing priorities, re-bridging, and creating new, more solid foundations; sooner than later, this shape-shifting is inevitable.
Every thought, action and intent creates the potential for transformation. However, inaction or the inability to think of new improvised solutions and possibilities; simply leads to stagnation and decapitated skill, knowledge and fluidity to innovate. The pandemic created restlessness with many being asleep or inactive in a radically changing world. However, this restlessness began to find new expressions through art, knowledge, self-reflection and community initiatives to meet ever-changing needs daily. How and what to do with one's own time and energy has become a choice and no longer a rule or routine, this might have led to some laziness and confusion at first, but slowly started turning some couch potatoes into artists, visionaries, scientists, and all without having to give any entrance exams or own any qualifying certificates for proof. Families spending more quality time together, encouraging and accepting individual differences in one another while holding a space for being a unit is improving emotional intelligence and equipping more and more individuals to meet the needs for being an asset progressive to human endeavors of the future. Homeschooling has become a reality, and is redefining education, skill, potential and aptitude for wholesome growth and knowledge. Each person is unique and has some abilities and skills that can only be discovered if they are allowed to simply enjoy what they are doing, and do what they enjoy. Learning should be collaborative and not competitive. Education becomes wisdom when knowledge is experienced and applied, and not rigid or myopic. Learning becomes living when ethics are introduced to education. We have probably less than ten years from now to make a change. If we do, we are doing it in a disintegrating world as we fix it. The New World system of education is shaping itself with the winds of change as they pick myriad creative and reflective approaches towards society along the way, merging action and knowledge simultaneously. The default faith in our future is held on the firm foundation of collective potential. Therefore, collective intelligence can unleash the inherent brain collaboratively. Many Indian and International start-ups are focusing on unique models of learning and finding more takers now. Alternative systems of education can develop great potential by encouraging authentic strengths and commitments. Kurt Hahn, a German educationalist, founded the "United World College" in 1962 to promote intercultural understanding, a global network of schools and educational programs aiming to unite people, nations and cultures to create a sustainable future. Other initiatives such as The Paradise School, The School of Light, School of Continuing Education, all aim to nurture self-motivated individuals through experiential learning that cradles a sense of responsibility towards the community through self-reflection, expression and an unending thirst for knowledge. In this time of crisis, it is important to understand that whatever is happening is causing a deep psychic polarization. And this polarization is making it difficult for people who are ready to make a difference to do the job, but on the other hand, it is also making it possible for the rising generation and the traditional decision-makers to come together as 'Global Citizens'. We can say, our life and that of our children hinge on the step that we take today. Today's youth is the most socially connected generation so far, and it shares the responsibility of making a positive difference in the world. This unprecedented challenge requires an extraordinary solution that starts with empowered youth who are empowering others. Any youth initiative is not only limited to the crisis but also to the aftermath. Leadership isn't about the leader; it's about those who can trust and respect him as one. Leaders are responsible for creating conditions that allow people to fully comprehend the extent of their capacity and power. The pandemic saw many leaders being born by simply awakening to their true purpose and potential.
The pandemic has made its presence felt globally, but the effects of this presence have been distributed unevenly. Some social minorities have had to brave more severe consequences, while others have had ancient wisdom and a humanitarian foresight to keep the torch ignited for the collective. Either way, the spotlight that these two parallel pillars deserve was granted to them by the pandemic. The ancient knowledge and harmony that some indigenous cultures have managed to preserve can offer great insights and solutions to handle many practical and emotional vulnerabilities of these times and beyond by not denying them, but rather turning the same vulnerabilities into the strength of trusting what is not familiar, and respecting that which has always been there for us to nurture and be nurtured by. The pandemic brought online, circles and gatherings offered by and for the indigenous communities to connect more deep and organic with the world community, so both the sides could benefit equally from the sharing. Many spontaneous initiatives to contradict the limitations of the crisis were born, to only grow from here. In Cachar district in the state of Assam, India. A small group of boys aged 14-25, shared a common interest in cricket, and used WhatsApp group for scheduling their matches, but, when the lock-down was imposed, they came to know about issues being faced by people of this area, embarking them on a mission to assist their community. The group first organized funds by sharing links to UPI-based applications like Google Pay at local medical and supply stores. In the beginning, they delivered 50-60 packets of ration to the needy, in some time, with better management and recruitment of volunteers they began to reach a large number of people. Further, they were supported by the elders of their community, and till today they are working to provide resources to the needy, daily wage earners, migrants, tea garden laborers, and beggars in their area. A small change of attitude can light up the entire society. By the same token, in remote villages of Odisha state when weaver communities were impacted by the pandemic and their income was forced to closure, they utilized their weaving skills in mask manufacturing, these masks were made with 'Ikat', a distinctive fabric dyeing method consisting of natural fabric that creates a beautiful design on clothes, a tradition being passed on through generations by these weaver communities in Odisha. Moreover, these masks were sustainable, handmade, and reusable, and with the help of PARINAMA and RYTHM Foundation, they were able to fulfill an order of 30000 masks for QNET. This not only supported a particular community, but gave natural and sustainable protection to many during the pandemic. David Sanchez from Colombia worked with his team "Colombia help" teaching the countryside people self-dependency for survival - like cooking, skill development, and production for a living, he is also helping them to export their products now. Linda Kemoli from Kenya began spreading Covid-19 awareness at its onset, as most of them did not have an internet connection and not even electricity, she trained the ones who had access to it so they could teach others through visual activities explaining to them how the world was before the pandemic, during this pandemic, and what they can do to better prepare for a world after the pandemic. These interactions also provided everyone participating with the opportunity to share insight and exchange opinions, traditional knowledge and technological advancements that can be merged for better living in times to come. These are just some of the authentic nuances from the many that are shaping more self-reliant lives for an equitable movement forward.
Economics for a common good is the core motivation fueling new economic models. "Generative Economy" - introduced by Marjorie Kelly, is a living socio-economic design aligned with solutions focused on the cradle to grave approach. Rich in biodiversity and not limited by mono-culture, generative economy's main purpose is to sustain fair and just conditions that benefit all layers by organizing the structure and objective of the living body or community as a whole. Regenerative economics begins with giving respect to source capital - sun and earth. Though complex in the fact that humans are the driving force, regenerative economy has the ability to operate at a consciousness higher than other non-holistic and linear systems, given to its deeper understanding of ecological patterns and principles while integrating valuable wisdom from traditions in present systems to meet changing dynamics and supporting balanced participation and collaboration. According to Charles Eisenstein, 'Scarcity is built into the money system,' in Sacred Economics, he talks about how we didn't earn anything that keeps us alive, the air we breathe is a gift, and so is life itself, and therefore, the most important skill we can own, is gratitude. With grace we can continue giving and receiving, in a gift economy - the surplus that we have is shared with who needs it, there is no competition or insecurities to feel any lack. A Circular Economy is based on the 3R's- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle; where resource use is minimized and reuse of products is maximized to create a close-loop system. It's confirmed! Current systems of money are insufficient and lob-sided. Progress has been restricting itself with different faces of ruling classes, bureaucracy and governance. And now these restrictions are shifting. Decentralized financial (DeFi) systems are already enabling alternatives a step closer towards a fair economic environment. According to the P2P Foundation, "Society is shifting from a system based on value created in market through labor and capital, to a system that recognizes broader value streams such as social and creative value generated online. The rise of new types of value generated by commoners working outside of typical market structures - is forcing us to go beyond the simple equation of price = value." A truly developed society does not cater only to the needs of a few, but to the needs of the society as a unit. Doughnut economy envisions economic humanity, it is said to be far more inclusive than other parallel economies and is being discussed by governments worldwide. The doughnut economy model consists of two rings where one forms a social foundation so that nobody is left out and the other one is a ceiling ring to make sure that it doesn't overshoot planetary boundaries. The doughnut is at the core. Doughnut economics proposes an economic mindset that's fit for the challenges of the present world, It's this very creative thinking that makes this unique and logical; drawing insights from various complex economies and beliefs, it presents itself as a comprehensive model, focused on the big picture, and not limited to a Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Bhutan, a small kingdom in the Himalayas was far more foresighted than the rest of the world to mandate in 2008, (GNH) Gross National Happiness as a measure instead of GDP, for National Development. Today it is the only carbon-negative country in the world.
Collaboration can be experienced as a science and art of life, 'we are not constant, we are an arrow in flight, the sum of the angles of change', and this dynamic constant is a product of our interactions within and out, human conditions are forever transforming, so to live without a sense of being grounded with respect to inter-dependability stiffens individual and collective purpose and well-being. The pandemic has displayed some positive patterns in re-building a sense of collaborative responsibilities, bringing the world closer into understanding our short-comings and strengths to build on for a resilient future. From art and cultural collaborations on-line to exploring International support mechanisms and relationships; collaborative efforts continue to keep hope ignited, one lamp, torch, lighter at a time. It has been noticed that cross-collaboration leads to a decrease in the collective healthcare risks that are difficult to manage independently. Sharing experiences, ideas, and knowledge, accelerates productive ties and implementation, and providing support standards increases the impact of research in development, while building mutual trust and understanding. A holistic approach to any given problem always serves better, specially when it's the collective well-being in concern. The pandemic has been another reminder that self-satiation can never satisfy sustainably, and neither can wealth ever be health, and our environment and local communities are not independent of one another. As the Greek philosopher, Socrates once said, "A part of us can never be well unless the whole is well." Therefore, the only way forward from all the ignorance so far, is to see the solutions through together. Flexible leadership, inclusive cooperation, equality, and just decision-making are all important for healthy resilience planning, which should become central to communities, Nations and all fellow beings. 'Resilience planning', includes personal responsibility in making the right decisions and supporting positive collaborations. Our relationship with the environment and how we interact with what we produce and consume are all important for future resilience. With as many solutions to disease as we have found, we must also nurture a healthy relationship with our bodies - physical, emotional and spiritual, as this is the core collaboration that is going to raise the collective consciousness to empower all other collaborative efforts more, and these preventive solutions will continue strengthening resilience further. Many initiatives are encouraging free learning sessions, sharing spaces and dialogues to assist this movement of self-empowerment, while raising funds to direct them where they are needed. Collaborative efforts at every layer, from the grassroots up are re-aligning our world into one we create and nurture, assuaging insecurities and vulnerabilities along the way, claiming the human rights that have gone neglected, while dissolving outdated oppressive structures now frail and crumbling.
Art is the most beautiful expression of human emotions and this space for freedom to express raises collective consciousness, it gives the most vulnerable sections of society a voice and an element of respect, while serving as a channel for learning and healing to tackle many issues like violence, harassment, etc. The pandemic has created many safe spaces for alternate voices and these discussions and sharing allow more creative solutions to real-world contradictions. For many, art has been the breath they could count on to keep serving the suffocating reality that was erupting around them. Many doctors began to create an alternate reality on their canvases and screens. "At a time when viruses can seem unknowable and scary, turning them into decorations, and including non-pathogenic viruses, is a reminder that viruses are only another part of the natural world." - Ed Hutchinson, lead of the molecular virology group at MRC. Sharing spaces allows us to go beyond our comfort zones, exchange thoughts, and cooperate, even if sometimes only possible electronically; this has been made possible by the generous spirit of thousands of individuals who read, watch, listen to, and respect artistic expression, particularly now. This outpouring of support reflects that a creative life is vital to society. It is essential to seek purpose in life during such moments, and self-expression and self-exploration through any creative channel creates a fluid space for new ideas to create new experiences. Keeping in mind the inalienable role of expression for serving human rights, UNESCO has issued guidelines to promote and protect freedom of expression through electronic mediums to encourage regional art and culture, individual artists, and cultural activists. Many artists have been performing to raise funds during the pandemic, while children are now strumming and drumming with their parents more. The spaces created by unscheduling and absent rush hour distractions are finding the rhythm for unbound expression that our global family is always there to celebrate.