Ivan Illich, a great South American advocate of the poor, was once asked whether the most powerful way to change a society was through a violent revolution or by education and democratic reform? He replied that it was neither: Instead you must “tell a new and powerful tale, one so persuasive that it sweeps away the old myths and becomes the preferred story.”
In many parts of the world it is vital to offer a new vision of hope to counter the vicious circles of despair, fear, anger and violence. It is vital to move beyond stories of victimisation to stories of empowerment; to move beyond stories of 'them' and 'us' to stories of inclusion. That’s why all our communications aim to convey hope and frequently challenge conventional notions about what is possible in the areas of individual and social transformation, cross-cultural relationships and reconciliation. Honest conversation and story-telling are used extensively to convey both ideas and deep life experiences.
Individuals of many cultures, nationalities, religions, and beliefs are actively involved with Initiatives of Change. This is a collection of commentaries on important events and trends.
If you would like to submit a story of change or a reflection for possible publication here, please kindly send it by email. The editors reserve the right to refuse contributions that use intemperate language or vilify others and which do not in our view encourage productive dialogue.
On a recent visit to Brazil Mohan Bhagwandas found himself impressed by 'the boundless energy' of the Brazilians, 'even when the thermometer gets to 48'. One quiet morning overlooking in Rio de Janeiro, he connected with a different energy ...
Ken Noble from England recently visited the United States for the first time in 25 years. 'I am conscious that there is a lot of history between the two nations – some good and some not so good. A sense of history is important. It defines to a large extent who we are today. When we forget our place in history, we can easily be unreal about ourselves.'
Ken Noble from England recently visited the United States for the first time in 25 years. 'I am conscious that there is a lot of history between the two nations – some good and some not so good. A sense of history is important. It defines to a large extent who we are today. When we forget our place in history, we can easily be unreal about ourselves.'
Carl Stauffer, PhD. Academic Director, Caux Scholars Program writes, 'Amidst the flurry of media analysis on the current "State of the Union" in the United States, I find myself reflecting on the state of peace in our world.'
Carl Stauffer, PhD. Academic Director, Caux Scholars Program writes, 'Amidst the flurry of media analysis on the current "State of the Union" in the United States, I find myself reflecting on the state of peace in our world.'
Maud Glorieux from France, who is living in India with her young family, recently attended the third Making Democracy Real Dialogue in India. Participating in the Dialogue has made her more aware of the responsibilities that democracy brings with it.
Maud Glorieux from France, who is living in India with her young family, recently attended the third Making Democracy Real Dialogue in India. Participating in the Dialogue has made her more aware of the responsibilities that democracy brings with it.
