The Importance of Direct Action

Recently, I came across two very different, yet equally interesting articles about blogging. The first post by Nisha Chittal (http://politicoholic.com/2009/03/02/25-ways-to-use-your-blog-and-social-media-to-create-change/ ) gives readers twenty-five suggestions about different ways one can use blogs and social media to create change. All of these suggestions are certainly useful for those entering the world of professional blogging for the first time. After reading the blog post, I scrolled through the comments section, and found one to be rather intriguing. The poster, DemiOrator, commented that perhaps a rewrite of the suggestions was in order, and posted a link to his list of suggestions at http://demiorator.blogspot.com/2009/04/25-ways-to-change-society.html. While I don't agree with all of his specific suggestions, I must say that his emphasis on action is extremely important, and one with which I can agree completely.

In our modern world, few can deny the importance of the written word, especially in the non-profit sector. People write letters asking for donations to a charitable organization. They circulate petitions, post advice, and link to websites about all sorts of charitable causes. You can even join facebook groups dedicated to particular causes. None of this is bad, of course. However, it is important to remember that reading about a cause or reading posts about an issue isn't the same as doing something about the issue. Yes, it's a good way to become more informed. Yes, it can assuage your conscience and make you feel that you are doing something valuable. However, there is no substitute for direct action. To take an extremely obvious example, lets examine the issue of hunger. Is it more productive to read an article about hunger in the world, or should you spend your time in a local soup kitchen working to alleviate hunger?

There will always be some people who dislike direct action, for a number of reasons. It's far easier, safer, and more comfortable to read posts and articles online than to go out into the world and face problems head on. When one is removed from the reality of the situation, these pressing issues somehow become less urgent, and it is easy to lose focus and get distracted by petty matters. Others simply feel uncomfortable volunteering; they prefer to remain behind the scenes, and not directly work with the people whom they serve. Others might argue that they have no time in which to volunteer, so blogging is as much as they can do.

Again, I would like to reiterate that it is not wrong to research, blog about issues, or work behind the scenes, and all of the above are useful and good in their own right. However, one can't lose focus on the key point of non-profits: serving others. Gandhi said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." Whether you are involved in research, administration, fundraising, or some other aspect of an organization, make sure to take the time to go out and physically help others, whether through building a home, mentoring, packaging meals, or anything else. You don't need to stage a radical protest (as the author of the self-proclaimed radical/activist blog stated), but you do need to be willing to have an open mind and heart open to others.

Final thought of the night- if, over the weekend, you find yourself thinking about poverty, the problems within inner-city schools, pollution, or any other issue, stop for a minute. Ask yourself, "what can I do to go help alleviate this problem right now?" Then go do it! This can be as simple as going through your cupboards to find canned goods to donate, or taking the time to help a child improve his or her reading skills. It doesn't matter how small and insignificant the action may seem to you; to others, it means a world of difference.