Sometimes, when I think of making a change in the world, it's easy to become overwhelmed or disheartened if I focus on "my smallness." Yet, no matter how chaotic or despairing the times, it is always inspiring to see the reminder that intention, commitment and heart can be just as powerful as celebrity or money or massive organizational support when it comes to contributing to a higher vision for humanity and this planet that we share.
THE SHIFT movie is exactly the right dose of inspiration for those moments when optimism or determination flags. And for those who are ceaseless in their efforts to be the change they wish to see in the world, as Gandhi so famously exhorted us all to do, it can serve as an enthusiastic championing for the path they have chosen to blaze.
Among the many remarkable things about this film is that it is being made at a grassroots level with the support of people like you and me who believe that each one of us can make a difference in creating a better world for ourselves, our children and the planet's diverse nonhuman inhabitants. Even in the face of war, poverty, global warming, terrorism, escalating divisions and corruption, this film posits that a brighter future is not only possible, it's already being created. Yes, there are the celebrities and the world leaders, the visionaries and spiritual luminaries, several of whom appear in the film, doing their part, but there are also millions of "ordinary" individuals coming together to put their ideals of peace and compassion into practice. And so a "shift" really is occurring, with many of the world's young people at its forefront.
Films like this remind me that it is indeed an exciting time to be alive. Particularly inspiring is musician and activist Derrick Ashong and his message that making the world a better place can be a joy and a blessing, not just an obligation. It's about realizing that we each have a unique voice and gift to contribute, and that the moment to do so is now.
"We are the ones we've been waiting for," say the Hopi elders of Arizona about this period of awakening . And surely, there's nothing small in the least about answering such a call!
- Naila Francis
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