Everyone Has Something to Give

This quote from anthropologist Margaret Mead speaks to the power of people mobilizing. The power of true, meaningful change starts with impacted individuals and communities. It is daunting to witness the immense struggles facing the world now and hold the mindset that trajectories can shift. The quote is a reminder that everything must start somewhere. The number of people is not what drives change, but instead it is their motivation. Although this quote may sound overly naïve or optimistic, hope is contagious, and the act of a single passionate person can lead to a snowball effect for those around them..

Resource utilization is made more effective through organizing. If one prioritizes community health or the improvement of one’s community, they are more likely to work to implement changes. I cherish the possibility of living in a more equitable society. I want to live in a society where everyone can get by and enjoy life’s benefits. I believe that each life has intrinsic value and is entitled to a certain level of enjoyment as well as the chance to advance and support their families. I do not believe that people should only be exploited as agents of labor for others.

There is no one cookie-cutter method of bringing this world about; I believe everyone has gifts, and using these gifts to their full advantage in the service of others is the best way to help. If someone has wealth, donating money is more practical and beneficial than someone who may not have as much wealth but has other talents that can benefit a certain community.

This brings to mind the biblical account of the widow’s mite, found in Mark 12:41–44 and Luke 21:1–14. When wealthier members of the group contribute only from their surplus, which costs them nothing, Jesus points out the woman with very little who gives all she has. This narrative acts as a potent reminder that the depth of sacrifice and sincere intention behind one’s effort are more important than the quantity or tangible worth of the offer.

In the same way, everyone has something special to give when it comes to assisting others, regardless of their financial situation. Each person has unique circumstances, skills, and resources, and it is only through valuing this diversity that we can effectively alter our communities.

My career hopes are driven by a desire to live purposefully and know I made a worthy difference and positively impacted peoples’ lives. I hope to participate in the political arena and have been working to develop foundational knowledge, skills, and activism. Through my acceptance to a Civics Center summer intensive focused on advanced voter drive organizing, I learned about public narratives and strong speechwriting skills. I believe that political justice leads to greater social justice and awareness. I also worked on a youth legislative team to advocate for electoral reforms, specifically ranked-choice voting. This voting system is proven to be more equitable and promotes diversity among political candidates. After meeting with city council members, I testified at a council meeting to inform my community about the importance of the reform and proposed an implementation plan.

Although I have been part of some other advocacies, these two stand out to me, because they shaped my identity and helped me articulate what I want to stand for. As I became more exposed to the kinds of people who participate in this type of work, I desired to be around them more and develop my character in ways that reflected their traits I admire.

God gifted me with kindness, empathy, and creativity. I have an innate care for others and look to see that they find peace and happiness. I may not always understand or know how to best help in situations, but I will always do my best to remain curious and work to better understand the needs of marginalized individuals and communities.

Sydney Leardi interned for the IPJC Youth Action Team this past year while attending Seattle Prep High School. She looks forward to pursuing economics and political science, through the lens of community service and organizing, at Boston College in the fall.