My online research often takes me to interesting websites chock-full of valuable information on a variety of subjects -- and of course good information can, more often that not, be applied to many areas of one's life. For example, I was reading about self-reliant living when I came across a list I've personally dubbed "The Four E's".
The list was presented on the Self-Reliance Works website in response to answers they'd received from a questionnaire they had put together for their readers. The questionnaire summarily asked: "What is the hardest thing for you in regards to putting together and implementing a preparedness plan".
The gist of the combined answers was interesting (and in many ways pertinent to what we anti-war, pro-peace advocates might experience in some circles) -- people's biggest frustration was the lack of support, and downright “you’re crazy” attitude of their immediate and extended families.
The list was presented on the Self-Reliance Works website in response to answers they'd received from a questionnaire they had put together for their readers. The questionnaire summarily asked: "What is the hardest thing for you in regards to putting together and implementing a preparedness plan".
The gist of the combined answers was interesting (and in many ways pertinent to what we anti-war, pro-peace advocates might experience in some circles) -- people's biggest frustration was the lack of support, and downright “you’re crazy” attitude of their immediate and extended families.
The author of the list contemplated how best to address such a universal concern as “What can I do to convince others…?” and came up with what I now call The 'Four E's". I think it's worth a look for anyone involved in any kind of activism or movement when working to educate, persuade, and bring a unique perspective on a particular subject to the table.
Jan
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The Four E's
- Enlightenment: The prominent meaning of enlightenment is awareness, understanding. To me this suggests that we should be continuously aware of what is going on in the world, prepare as we see fit, and yet, be understanding of those who don’t agree with us.
- Education: Synonyms – Learning, improvement, guidance, preparation. This applies to everyone at all times — continuous learning and preparation. Seeking guidance and self-improvement. Ultimately we are responsible only for our own education in life.
- Empowerment: Synonyms – consent, permission, acceptance, acknowledgment. Definition – to give power or authority to. This works two ways. Give power to others to act as they choose, but most importantly, give yourself permission to make your own decisions, with or without the support of others. Accept that they may never “get on board” with your preparedness plans, but choose to prepare for yourself and family regardless.
- Entrepreneurship: Definition - person who organizes and manages any enterprise usually with considerable initiative and risk. These synonyms are appropriate: organizer, producer, promoter. And if YOU are the organizer, the manager, promoter and producer, so be it. YOU will be prepared. YOU will sleep at night without worry. ~ by Joan Crain
Thank you Jan for recognizing the work of Joan Crain, one of our talented writers at www.Self-Reliance-Works.com Our blog strives to be politically neutral, but if one would roll back the covers, you'd likely find a bunch of classical liberal thinkers who share your views on limited government, individual liberty, and justice. I am a proclaimed Libertarian, but by no means represent the political beliefs of our team. The vision I had in mind when we started the blog was individuals, perhaps headed in different directions, but always having one foot on the common ground of self-reliance. Too often, we forget the common ground and instead focus on alignment. I believe that's why we have so much effort in the world that is cross-purpose. It seems to be a common human trait, so whenever we can focus on common ground, we should expect progress to be made. I'm glad you're finding our blog to be of value. Please consider submitting a guest post if you get the urge.
ReplyDeleteClair Schwan
Clair ... I'm more than happy to mention Joan's work on my blog.
ReplyDeleteAlso worth mentioning is that in a similar manner as your Self Reliance Works team, our efforts at The Mothers Institute to unite the anti-war, pro-peace mothers' (and others) movement is politically neutral, though many of the moms who have been long time supporters of our organization come to their anti-war, pro-peace stand via the libertarian philosophy and their understanding of the non-aggression principle. However, more and more I am enjoying a positive working relationship with liberals and conservatives as we work together to help end the war(s) and promote peace. Such unifying goals fit into the category of common ground which you refer to -- and cross political boundaries more often than not.
Lastly, thanks for the offer to submit a guest post via your blog. Such an offer is much appreciated. Also, I hope you'll stop back by this blog from time to time and add your common sense thinking to the conversation here. ~ Jan