The Voice of Those Whose Cries are not Heard...

Freedom is a privilege that I myself enjoy, but, admittedly at times take for granted.  While freedom should be each and every individual's basic human right - it unfortunately is not...


Although illegal, human trafficking and modern-day slavery is a very real and present issue world-wide.  It is estimated that, in our world today, there are currently over 27 Million victims of human trafficking.  This should not be tolerated!  Not only does this issue anger me, but I find it difficult to comprehend the fact that an individual can think they can own another human being, let alone, deny them their basic human rights. Slavery is not dead, and it grieves me to the core to see this in existence in this day and age. 

We can look at the statistics and become overwhelmed due to the enormity of the problem, or perhaps even become desensitized because we see these statistics as numbers and not individuals.  The stories told in the video links below are of real individuals - rescued from human trafficking and a life of slavery. 

I am highly appreciative of organisations such as The A21 Campaign and CNN Freedom Project, and other similar organisations who have taken on the enormous task of actively working towards abolishing this human injustice! They have chosen to fight for the freedom of those who cannot fight for themselves; 'to be the voice of those whose cries are not heard' (paraphrased] Christine Caine, A21 Campaign). 

In addition to the above listed websites, there are many resources available to those of you who are wanting to further investigate this issue. One of which is a book I recommend, and am currently reading, written by journalist, E. Benjamin Skinner, titled 'A Crime so Monstrous'.  "A Crime So Monstrous tells dramatic stories of the lives of a few slaves, as well as of the author’s often harrowing encounters with those who sell, own, and free them" (acrimesomonstrous.com). 

I don't want to be ignorant toward issues such as this. For if we do not seek to understand the problem, then how can we be in a position to act?  "[T]here is one coward on earth, and that is the coward that dare not know" - W.E.B. Du Bois. 


We can all contribute something towards this fight. We can seek to be further informed, and/or actively increase awareness regarding this issue. We could also consider donating funds towards organisations aimed at rescuing victims and abolishing this crime; or if moved, and have the resources to do so, volunteer to assist one of these organisations. Personally, I accept that I cannot do everything, but whatever is within my power and capacity to do, that I will do. Today, I chose to be the voice...


Freedom should not simply be a privilege, but the basic right of each and every human being! 
  

Follow CNN Freedom Project on Twitter
http://thecnnfreedomproject.blogs.cnn.com/

 
Follow A21 on Twitter
A21 Website


I am a newbie blogger and this is my second blog. There is more to come. I know in last week's blog I mentioned that the topic this week would be 'The power of positive thinking', however, I felt to write on this issue instead. 'The power of positive thinking' will have its turn in a future blog...

It all comes down to attitude...

Have you ever met the kind of person, that no matter what situation or circumstance, they always find a way to highlight the negative?  Yes, you know exactly the type of personality I am talking about!  In fact, right now, you are probably thinking about someone you know who matches this very description.  There could be a zillion positives, but what do they focus on?  The ONE negative point, and if there isn't one, they either make one up or show no appreciation for the good.  The killjoys of life, taking the joy out of all things good or worth celebrating.  The other variety of killjoy is the one who finds every reason why something cannot be done for the sake of not wanting change; happy simply sitting in their little comfort zone.  You know, the "if it aint broke then there's no need to fix it" or "everything is working fine, why change?" mentality.  I am not talking about constructive criticism here - I am referring to the whiners and whingers that cannot help themselves by bringing negativity into every situation and environment. 

Pessimism is not one of my favourite characteristics.  In fact, it is one of the least on my list. I am so pleased that this attitude is shared only by the minority of this world.  Where would we be if this was a standard mindset shared by all?  I am extremely grateful for positive and progressive thinkers. I like to think I am one of these.  Well, at least I am working at it.  Working at being one that gets on board and says, 'this might be tough but lets find a way to make it work'.  I am also working at trying to think the best of everyone.  This can be a real challenge I know, particularly if the person you are trying to see good in is not particularly likable or, worse still, bearable.  But no matter how unpleasing a person may be, there is always something good that can be found or seen in them.  Sometimes one must dig deep - really, really deep!  If we look hard enough beyond the negatives, we will find it. It may even be just one positive.  


The way I see it, while I myself do possess some good qualities, I am not perfect. I would be kidding myself, or simply deluded, to think I was. Therefore, if I have any hope or expectation that others will put aside my flaws and imperfections, and appreciate me for my good points, then I must do the same for others. 

Let's face it, people do not get excited about spending time with killjoys - I certainly don't want to be known as one.  I want to be the kind of person that is a breath of fresh air in the life of those around me, who speaks positively of and to others, and has 'optimist mode' as my default setting.  I want to cheer others on in life, rather than tear them down.  Someone who gets excited about the achievements of others and is an encourager to those who daily cross my path.  To be that positive voice, even in difficult circumstances.  Yes it requires effort, and can sometimes be really hard work, however it is possible - and worth it!  


Next week, I am going to share my thoughts on the power of positive thinking!