30 Days of Nonviolence
When we think of having power, we usually think of being able to influence another person in such a way that they do what we want. The power flows from the person with power, towards others.
However, one can also have influence in a more dynamic 'relational' way, where working together creates more power. This can be called 'power with'.
Moreover, there is power in caring for others, that we can call “integrative power”. It is the power of solidarity and/or service.
1. Go deeper: A volunteer at Peace Brigades International named Karen Ridd showed the power of solidarity in a particularly difficult situation where she may have chosen to only think of her own safety. She and her friend were captured by a militarized group in El Salvador and the Canadian Embassy was able to put pressure on them to release her, but they could not do this for her Colombian friend. As the ambassador was waiting for her, she turned around and went back to her capturers, and demanded her friend's freedom. (See this video for Michael describing this experience.)
2. Practice: Practicing integrative power, we stand up for human dignity. Think of a situation where your solidarity, your care can make a difference. What action could you take that goed beyond your personal 'gain', but enhances the well-being of others?