My most recent posts have been about racism in the USA and UK and how change must come from those with privilege, and yes, white privilege, starting with white people genuinely being open to listening and learning about why their country and the world is systemically racist.
Today sharing this from my inspiring friend, Jeff Raker of LevelUp Leadership in the USA, a man of great purpose and love for his fellow humans.
In light of recent events, I was drawn to an illustration that is helpful to answering the question: “What should I do/What can I do?”
Those who work on themselves, will be the most successful leaders, and the greatest change agents for our world. In the crypts of Westminster Abbey, the following words were written on the tomb of an Anglican bishop who lived in the 11th Century:
“When I was young and free my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country. But it, too, seemed immovable. As I grew in my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it. And now as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realized: If I had only changed my self first, then by example I would have changed my family. From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country and, who knows, I may have even changed my world.”
Start with yourself and you will have taken the first step to changing your world.
Jeff Raker, Level Up Leadership