Challenge

Principle 4. We openly challenge ourselves and this toxic system: leaving our comfort zones to take action for change.

In the course of history, there comes a time when humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness, to reach a higher moral ground. A time when we have to shed our fear and give hope to each other. That time is now.

Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize winner

Nonviolent direct action is costly - to us, to those close to us and to our relationships. It requires disruption in our own lives.

Public acts of rebellion are often physically uncomfortable, involving getting cold, stiff, tired hungry and are psychologically challenging, evoking feelings of fear, vulnerability, anxiety and sometimes anger. But they can be moments of real joy and deep solidarity with each other.

So we have to challenge ourselves - are we willing to act? Are we willing to make changes in our lives to give us enough free space in them to enable us to act? Are we willing to make sacrifices?

"Yes, I am brave and strong!"

Protest

Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1850 – 1919)

To sin by silence, when we should protest,
Makes cowards out of men. The human race
Has climbed on protest. Had no voice been raised
Against injustice, ignorance, and lust,
The inquisition yet would serve the law,
And guillotines decide our least disputes.
The few who dare, must speak and speak again
To right the wrongs of many.

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