Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Power Paradox

Bumped into this absolutely fabulous article on what the true power should be and actually is. It is an attempt to blow the myth of what the power has been understood and what has been taught and being perpetrated which still is grossly faulty.

My favorite point in the article:

"A major reason why Machiavellians fail is that they fall victim to a third myth about power. They mistakenly believe that power is acquired strategically in deceptive gamesmanship and by pitting others against one another. Here Machiavelli failed to appreciate an important fact in the evolution of human hierarchies: that with increasing social intelligence, subordinates can form powerful alliances and constrain the actions of those in power. Power increasingly has come to rest on the actions and judgments of other group members. A person's power is only as strong as the status given to that person by others."

How I wish people spent more time on cultivating social intelligence rather than acquiring blanket powerless powers which can be dynamited anytime.

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

You can be the Change!

Here is your chance to see, feel and contribute towards something meaningful. I always appeal folks to not just contribute money but participate and volunteer their time for the organization. Understand the problems, question and seek answers. If you are convinced with the cause then monetary contribution will follow.

What has been possible in the past? Some few things, still significant! What can we do in the future? Its up to us! If we grow big in our efforts, we can make the problems smaller. I believe in it! My simple request is to take action on the things you feel need a fix. No action is as big a sin as wrong action.

Here is a promise of thousand volunteers at AID:

"One for India (OFI) is the year-end fundraiser of Association for India's Development (AID). This year we aim to raise $250,000 to support our initiatives in 2008, and to make the community aware of AID's activities. Donate to AID and we promise that your ONE contribution" will count and make a positive difference in India. "

I can use some heavy-duty Gandhi quote here to make a bigger impact but I will save that for ultimate final appeal..:).