The upside of a new democracy is the disproportionately high interest by citizens. But it is also easy to get distracted and even misinformed by the news flow – especially when it is dominated by expose’s of corruption and incompetence. With the real issues often misunderstood by novice scribblers seeking sensational headlines (recent reporting of the “bank cartel” an obvious example).
An emotional Biznews community member encapsulated her dilemma on email this week when asking how can each of us help be part of the solution. Sure there are organisations like OUTA, Afriforum, Save SA and others that are fighting evil, but how can I make a difference, she asked?
There are many activists better qualified to answer. From where I sit, it’s doing the little things right that improves life. Wilson and Kelling’s broken windows theory (Google it). Each of us has the ability to set an example through simple things like following the rules of the road and being honest and timeous about our tax contribution. But most of all, by reading, learning and sharing that knowledge.
South Africans have some wonderful role models. So if you get confused, consider the examples of Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu or today’s man in the spotlight Pravin Gordhan. The world would be a far better place if more of humanity followed their example.
