As consumers, we would like to believe that “somebody” is looking out for our welfare. As enlightened consumers, however, we know the goal of business is not the welfare of people but the welfare of their profits. Doctors make more money treating illnesses and businesses make more money convincing people to buy things they do not want or need at prices that exceed their worth. Often we feel defenseless in the face of power, however, we can make change happen through our personal choices.
A consumer, who buys directly from the hand of a producer, avoids being a statistic, a profit or loss figure on paper. Buying direct from a producer invokes trust. It honors the consumer and producer by creating a personal relationship connected by the product exchanged. That relationship is the “somebody” who is looking out for our well-being as a society. Old fashioned? Yes. The way it used to be? Yes. The way it could be? Yes.
What makes us feel unable to make change happen? We have been lead to believe that we do not have the education needed; we are too young or too old; our voice lacks the strength required; we are without power. None of this is true. I suggest that attitude far outweighs aptitude.
This eleven-year-old boy represents the power of attitude. He is changing lives as his TED presentation has gone viral on the internet. Watch and listen to his simple but profound message. Birke Baehr, a young man before his time.
1 comment:
Very well spoken young men delivering a very inspiring speech. My first thought was he was coached but the absolute passion and conviction he speaks with soon convinced me he was not coached. He is just really well educated on the subject and it goes to show how we often underestimate what our children are capable of. Interest and passion can turn any one into a expert and spokesperson for a good cause.
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