My own work, and what I’ve observed and participated in, has convinced me that global change always begins from small local efforts that then connect with other small local efforts; after many years of hard work, of experimenting and learning together, these small efforts may suddenly emerge as a powerful global system of influence.We need to recognize the failure of the popular change and development strategies that pursued one-size-fits-all programs or solutions– we’ve wasted billions of dollars on these. Rather, we need to focus our efforts on strengthening communities, supporting local leadership to emerge from anyone, and trusting that people are capable, creative and motivated when it’s their community and their set of problems…….
……If more people are active at the local level, they shift from impotence and grief to high energy and creativity. As they get engaged locally, they learn and develop; they come to understand how these large systems work and grow wiser in addressing their issues. Information again becomes important andpowerful. Having observed this process in so many different communities has led me to eagerly affirm: “Whatever the problem, community is the answer.”
– MARGARET (MEG) WHEATLEY
