The moment we’re born, we are tagged for potential greatness. Regardless of your background, I believe that each person can make a difference by adopting this philosophy. This post was inspired by Jeff Bridge’s recent acceptance speech at the Golden Globe Awards as the recipient of the 2019 Cecile B. DeMille Award for ‘outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment’. What struck and inspired me the most about Jeff’s speech, even though I am not an entertainer (professionally 😉), was his reference to the universally well-known game of tag. Jeff also compared individuals to trim tabs (a lesser known reference, but arguably, very applicable to his message), and how this small mechanism can affect positive movement on a large scale.
I had to write this post because I want to remember what Jeff said; it resonates with me. I have recently taken up global activism. Like every decent person, I am disgusted by the pollution of our planet, and the tonnes of plastic waste floating around in our oceans endangering its habitats and inhabitants. I don’t live near the ocean, but I’ve seen the news and heard the first-hand stories and it makes me so sad because the oceans are our planet’s life blood. I also feel sad because I think: what can I do?
I serendipitously found out about Fishing for Plastic from one of the dentists I work with. Her sister is the co-founder of this grass roots non-profit organization committed to cleaning up the scourge of plastic waste from our ocean’s and coastlines. Please check them out!!! They are hosting a fundraising gala in North Vancouver on February 2nd. I’m helping procure silent auction items, and I am blown away by the generosity of the people I have approached for donations: Robert Bateman (yes, THE Robert Bateman) donated a signed, limited edition print called Ocean Rhapsody. Sue Coleman (yup, THE Sue Coleman) donated FIVE signed, limited edition prints!! Photojournalist Jo-Anne McArthur and her organization We Animals donated a print as well! And, two awesome local Okanagan wineries donated wine: if you’re ever in West Kelowna, please visit the hatch, and Off the Grid. All these people and their organizations have made a difference, and all I had to do was ask.
Throughout this experience, and taking heed of Jeff Bridge’s message, I’ve learned that I am here! I am doing something right now! It is okay to act in small ways towards positive change in the grand scheme of things, no matter how small the acts or how humble the requests seem to be.
Find something that you’re passionate about.
Focus on the things that you love.
It will make a difference. On a small scale AND in the big picture.
Kathryn Truant CDA MEd - a CDA's Role in Education and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 