Networking key to freedom, democracy

Nancy, a friend of mine recently had an inspiring opinion piece run locally. It outlined her response and her commitment after the recent presidential election. She began by saying: “I felt my values, gained over a lifetime of experience, had been totally disrespected.” She then went on to list about 30 of these values. Then she asked this question: “So, what do I, along with the majority of Americans like me, do now?” Here’s where it really gets to the heart of our possibilities and potential as concerned citizens.

Nancy, in her piece said this: “I suggest that we do not despair, but we follow the advice found on a post-it note in the New York City subway: BE THE HERO YOU NEED.” Nancy then went on to describe what that meant to her and how she is going to “aspire to be the best person, the best citizen, the best American, and the best human being that I can.”

Here is a something I have carried around with me for about 40 years. It is titled: “Decide to Network” by Robert Muller, author and former assistant secretary general of the United Nations.

“Use every letter you write, every conversation you have, and every meeting you attend to express your fundamental beliefs and dreams. Affirm to others the vision of the world you want. Network through thought. Network through action. Network through love. Network through the spirit. You are the center of a network. You are the center of the world. You are a free, immensely powerful source of life and goodness. Affirm it. Spread it. Radiate it. Think day and night about it and you will see a miracle happen, the greatness of your own life. In a world of big powers, media and monopolies, but of four and a half billion individuals, networking is the new freedom, the new democracy, a new form of happiness. “

I, personally, am taking all this to heart. Regardless of our politics, we are at one in our spirit of freedom and peace.

– Bob McClellan, Polson