Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
a tyranny of the major-
ity, or the loss of personal
freedoms. h en, for the
good of your commu-
nity, you understand the
importance of becoming
active and speaking out to
help nip those trends in
the bud.
Encourage others to
travel. For example, sup-
port student exchange
programs. Many people
have the resources to
travel, but live within a
social circle where “travel” means Las Vegas and Walt Disney World. High
schools and universities are putting more priority than ever on foreign study
programs. For many, the funding is a challenge. One trip can help forever
broaden the perspective of a young person with a big future. Hosting a foreign
student can help create the same amount of international understanding as
funding an American student's trip abroad.
Do a survey of causes you might become involved in, choose a couple
that resonate, then tackle these as a hobby. Working on my favorites—debt
relief for the developing world, drug policy reform, and af ordable housing—
brings me great joy. I have an excuse to focus my studies, I meet inspirational
people, and I enjoy the gratii cation that comes with actually making a dif-
ference. Organizations like Jubilee USA Network need grassroots help in
reaching their goal of relief for the world's most heavily indebted nations
(www.jubileeusa.org). Look into Bread for the World, a Christian citizens'
organization that ef ectively lobbies our government in the interest of poor
and hungry people both in our country and overseas (www.bread.org).
If you're inspired to advocate for smarter US drug laws, join NORML
(www.norml.org) and talk about it in polite company. h ere are a host of
good organizations and a world of worthy causes to support.
Promote the wisdom and importance of talking to your “enemies,” even
in everyday life. Confront problems—at home, at work, in your community—
with calm, rational, and respectful communication. Support politicians who
My daughter Jackie's high school trip—a month in a
Moroccan village—was her most eye-opening experience
yet in life. A trip like that doesn't happen without parents
and teachers who appreciate the value of sending stu-
dents abroad.
