CIB (Cait in Botswana)

Today President Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. I saw the news online in what would be the wee hours of American time. At first I was pleasantly surprised. Then I was amazed (really, appalled) as numerous news sites (from CNN to People) and the wise ones of facebook (e.g. my friends on facebook) decided to post a litany of commentary  to his award.

I find it amusing because I think the one of the real reasons that it is so controversial (among other reasons) is that he is a current figure well known by Americans and the rest of the world. Had any of the other people who had been considered top contenders won the news probably would have gone relatively under the wire. I’m sure the response by many to this statement would be that there would be no commentary because the “top contenders” actually deserved it. Whatever.

I argue this. While people across the globe argue for a day or two about whether Obama should have won the Nobel Peace Prize…I challenge you to take the higher road. There are two paths on this higher road:

1. Go out and volunteer. Volunteer with your church, a soup kitchen, a refugee center, the library – just go out and help! Take it one step further and make a commitment to volunteer! Sign up for once month or once a week – just get out there.

2. My other suggestion is take a minute to think about all of those who have gone out and tried to make a difference. Maybe this is someone in your community. Maybe it’s someone you have read about it a book or in the news, maybe it’s the ton of anonymous people who did it just

because. Try reading Three Cups of Tea or Nine Hills to Nambonkaha for inspiration.

I try to avoid using my blog as a soapbox, but I can’t avoid it today. In an era stupid politics, name calling, and entirely too much hatred and negativity I urge you to take the higher road. Make a commitment to help others, not just yourself. I promise you it will have benefits you can not anticipate.

Caitlin