Person Power
The Metta Center has created a 5-point plan for developing person power:
1. Consider boycotting the mass media. The message that the media promotes—that we do not have the resources within ourselves to be fulfilled and happy—is a toxic lie, and when we expose ourselves to this underlying message, even if we disagree with it, it still becomes deeply rooted in our consciousness with constant repetition. The media is selling a violent and vulgar story of who we are as human beings—don’t buy it.
2. Learn nonviolence—as you’re doing right now! But don’t stop here. Try to learn everything you can about the practice and principles of nonviolence. Look for role models throughout history who have carried out their visions of a nonviolent world. When you start with point #1, you’ll have more free time to engage in #2 :-).
3. Get a spiritual practice if you don’t already have one. This will help you to discover your inner strength and courage, and raise your image of your own human potential.
4. Personalize your relationships. We live in an increasingly dehumanized and depersonalized society. Try to resist it by taking opportunities to connect with people on a personal level in all situations.
5. Find your passion! As the civil rights leader Howard Thurman said, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Understand that nonviolence is the bridge between our personal development and social change. Through practicing nonviolence and trying to live up to your highest potential, you have the power to make great changes in your neighborhood, community, and the world.
As Michael Nagler likes to say about nonviolence, “It’s not about putting a different person in power; it’s about revealing a different power in people.” We hope this week’s lesson helps reveal the power within YOU!