"activism"

[Tom Kruse]

I'd like to agree with Alexon this:

>I'm not blind to the exploitation and oppression in my own
>community.  But movements happen for specific reasons.

And when they're not happening, as MOVEMENTS, what is one to do?  Not a
simple question.  One must consider:

- your income
- all the strategic tactical stuff already touched on
- what you have to offer anyway (skills, abilities)
- fulfillment

The latter might sound hopelessly new agey or something.  I mean it like
this: all the folks I know and admire for hanging in there have learned to
somehow take joy in the process, where others so often despair; to be able
to deal anguish that comes from recognizing one's own racism, sexism, and
limits generally; to accept that what we will see in our lifetimes is
precious little.  They have been patiently impatient (as Borge said), and
have really loved the people and times.

If Alex or any of us despair of these problems in some place and time,
shold that surprise us?

Tom

Tom Kruse
Casilla 5812 / Cochabamba, Bolivia
Tel/Fax: (591-4) 248242
Email: tkruse at albatros.cnb.net