Influence

From the time I was 10 years old I have heard that I possess wisdom beyond my years.  It has been gift and curse because some cannot determine my age at first glance and those that are familiar with my age perceive my views as weighted.  I choose to find value in my innate abilities to question what is in front of me, hear what is not said, and see what is not in front of me.  I enjoy discernment and live naturally in a spiritual state that relies on something greater than myself for inspiration and direction. 

In viewing TED Speaker, Jessica Jackley, I have connected with her views on poverty, money, and love.  At the core of her message we are reminded that social media messages have influenced our decisions to sow seed in the ground to reap a harvest of change.  If we are seen performing a task in accordance with moral laws we can free ourselves from the burdens that are often portrayed in the images we see of poverty.  We are often shown the existing lack and not the resource to remove lack from the equation. 

I think its compelling that our view on poverty is controlled by media.  Chris Anderson said it best when he described that our brains are processing more data through video than transcripts.  By being able to access experts through video has opened our minds to achievement.  Innovation is within us and now within reach.  Not only can we change the images of poverty but we can also share new images of innovation in the midst of poverty. 

We have the power to change the image of lack with a name, a place, or a new idea.  We can also discover that once we put ourselves in the midst of poverty that we will be reminded of our power to influence the definitions of lack and how the worlds sees it.  Africa as we view it is now synonymous with HIV/AIDS, and filth inspiring giving through an appeal to the abundance of bare necessities easily accessible in other countries.  Africa through the eyes of an African will prove that they too are influenced through the messages they receive from around the globe. 

The Internet has provided and on going dialogue among people around the world.  Everyday millions of people are able to post an idea or message to any group of people.  To influence the world we must decide to teach from our own expertise which includes the growth from our initial place as a novice by sharing the inward journey through our own discernment and voice leading us to address our feelings about the negative images we see and where to sow our seed. As we continue to process information we can inspire others and obtain cause or cash investors for our own mission.