Do you know Avaaz? Avaaz – meaning “voice” in several European, Middle Eastern and Asian languages – is a global web movement to bring people-powered politics to decision-making everywhere. Avaaz empowers people from all walks of life to take action on pressing global, regional and national issues, from corruption and poverty to conflict and climate change.
Some of you readers may have received the same message I did today. Here is an extract and my thoughts about it.
We’ve won beautiful and powerful victories together – important ones that will serve humanity. But we haven’t yet realized the full potential of our greatest power – the magic of human connection. Love.
Ricken, with the whole Avaaz team.
The nearly 50 million of us receiving this message come from every corner of the world, every walk of life, every part of the human family. But a common spirit of care and service, of light and love, has connected us. In many ways, Avaaz embodies the spirit of humanity, the idea that we are one people, and stewards of each other and all life.
The world needs this spirit more than ever. Because we will only survive the challenges we are facing, together.
So this is what it feels like we in Avaaz are meant to be and do: form a great fellowship of humanity, spread the truth of our connection, and work to build the world that is waiting to be born not from fear and anger at the ‘other’, but from hope and love of us all.
If this calling feels right to you, let the Avaaz team know by clicking below:
Yes, this feels right, I’m in.
This path might … inspire people to a culture of humanity that knits us together …
If this feels right, let’s begin this new year and new chapter with an act of connection. It might be reaching out to a loved one, or a stranger, or someone we disagree with politically, or any act of love, kindness, or gratitude.
Avaaz is not a religiously motivated movement. Members stem from all countries, cultures and faiths. But the spirit expressed in this message reminds me strongly of the mission of Jesus, which I wholeheartedly affirm. He came into this world as a humble baby and was lain in a manger instead of a bed; He had been sent by His Father to save the world, to offer us a rich and satisfying life; He came to bring reconciliation to a world torn apart by hatred and evil.
I wonder if such non-religious organisations as Avaaz, together with individuals of various faiths who emphasise love, caring, service, and stewardship, may – perhaps unwittingly – be furthering the intentions of the Creator of this wonderful world, Who desires peace, harmony and respect for His Creation.
What do you think?