On Being the Change You Want to See in the World

From Anger and Frustration to Compassionate Action

In the wise words attributed to Mahatma Gandhi, "Be the change you want to see in the world", there is a call to action—a reminder that true change starts with ourselves. Yes - you are personally responsible.

This simple yet powerful idea encourages us not just to wish for a different world but to act towards creating it. Only in action does the world change. Today, I want to share how this philosophy transformed my own approach to an issue that once filled me with frustration: littering.

Because oh boy, it took me so long to actually get it…

From Frustration to Action

Like many, I was deeply troubled by the sight of trash strewn about in our streets and parks. It wasn't just an eyesore; it felt like a visible sign of disrespect to our environment and community. Like - do you people really want to live in a landfill?

For years, I would walk by, each piece of litter stoking the fires of anger and helplessness. But one day, something shifted. Something broke. I asked myself, "What if, instead of getting angry, I did something about it?" That moment marked a turning point.

I started small, picking up a few pieces of litter during my walks. Initially, it was an impulsive act of striking out against injustice, but it quickly became a routine.

Equipped with gloves and a trash-collecting claw, I began dedicating a few hours each week to cleaning up my neighborhood. The activity was surprisingly fulfilling. Not only was I making my surroundings cleaner, but I was also trading passive doom-scrolling for active participation in my community.

With my headphones on, absorbing audiobooks, the work felt less like a chore and more like a meditative practice.

The Ripple Effect of Simple Acts

This new habit did more than just clean the streets; it transformed my perspective. It taught me that action leads to satisfaction and empowerment. Instead of venting online or feeling hopeless, I was making a tangible difference. My efforts did not go unnoticed. Neighbors began to nod their appreciation, and some even joined in, inspired to take part in these small but impactful acts of care.

Once, while cleaning out with my wife, we even met a few people that were collecting trash, leaving water and seeds for squirrels and birds and my heart overflowed with joy. Simple acts of kindness, man.

The Historical Echo of Gandhi's Words

Although Gandhi's exact phrasing, "Be the change you want to see in the world," might not be found in his direct speeches or writings, the spirit of the quote perfectly encapsulates his teachings and life.

He believed profoundly in the power of individual action and moral responsibility. Gandhi’s approach to change was deeply personal, rooted in the daily practice of living one's values and truths, whether through non-violent resistance or self-sufficiency. This message echoes through the decades, reminding us that we possess incredible agency to influence the world around us.

In the Czech Republic, we have been also influenced by another master of non-violent resistance - president Václav Havel. I have read his book “The Power of the Powerless” which I highly recommend and I also have to say that it left a mark on me. It made me believe that small actions of integrity, honesty, and true human companionship can make even oppressive dictatorships fall.

More Than Just Picking Up Trash

The principle of being the change is applicable beyond environmental stewardship. It's about actively participating in the creation of the world you wish to live in, whether that means volunteering, educating, innovating, or simply being kinder. Each action contributes to a collective transformation, influencing others and setting new norms.

It is all deeply interconnected.

Embodying the change you want to see in the world is one of the most empowering and effective ways to influence reality positively. Just do it, you will feel it for yourself. It begins with the refusal to accept the unacceptable, followed by taking steps—however small—to initiate change.

If something in your community or the broader world angers or disappoints you, consider what actions you can take to effect change. Reforge the anger into a tool. In doing so, you not only reshape your environment but also inspire others to rethink their own capabilities for impact.

This journey from anger to action has not only cleaned up my neighborhood but also cleansed my spirit and worldview. It expresses a powerful truth: when we change ourselves, we change the world. Let's each find our path to action and tread it boldly, for in these steps, we forge a better tomorrow.

Love,
Felix