EDITORIAL: MAKING A DIFFERENCE

How can we not make a difference when everything we do affects everything and everyone in this Global Community?

By Sr. Frances Brady, O.L.M.
Summer 2005

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There have been a number of opportunities recently to learn hard facts about the oppression of women, particularly the trafficking of women and children. Workshops, guest speakers and a drama helped to educate us. According to the United Nations, the trafficking of women and children is the third largest criminal business in the world, after drugs and weapons. The problem exists worldwide, including Canada. The root causes are global poverty, lack of education and public awareness, and too little respect for the equal worth of all people.

As members of a Church that professes to believe in the dignity and worth of all human life, we may find this information shocking. Knowing what to do with it can be challenging. In this, as in many situations, we may be overwhelmed by the size of the problem. At first glance we may feel powerless to change anything: "What can I do that will make any difference?" A second, more reflective glance may provide a different perspective.

How can we not change things? We live in a global community where everything we do affects everything and everyone else. Everything we do has an effect on the world's resources. Everything we do shapes our understanding and awareness, and that of others, and can determine the level of respect with which individuals and groups are treated. Daily, our actions either support the roots of poverty and the cycle of violence, or help to destroy them.

We can unite our efforts with those of countless women and men of many faiths around the world who are committed to making good choices in daily life. By using the Earth's resources justly, learning about what is happening in the world and sharing our knowledge, promoting respect and equality for each person and reverence for all life, we will indeed make a difference. Know that there is a lot we can do, notice what you are already doing that contributes to change, and continue these actions.

Much of this magazine edition is about the work of our Sisters in Nigeria where people struggle for life. Here, as in each country in which we work, the unity of purpose that we share with so many people provides support and encouragement.

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