The Making of A Global Citizen
In an increasingly interdependent world, the idea of global citizenship has never been more pertinent. A global citizen transcends local communities and embraces an obligation and identity that encompasses the earth and all fellow humans regardless of race, tribe, ethnicity, faith, etc. This is why it goes beyond borders to call for thoughts and actions that would be beneficial to humanity as a whole.
A global citizen is someone, who values cultural diversity and supports social justice, environmental sustainability, and human rights. It must be rooted in the belief that our common humanity goes beyond nationality, race or religion. We realize that as global citizens, our actions have implications far beyond local settings while issues like poverty, climate change and inequality force each one of us into individual actions aimed at addressing them.
Education is a vital aspect in enhancing global citizenship. It enables people to think critically and empathetically about complex challenges faced by the planet today (concerning other countries). Global community participation requires knowledge (and skills) which are necessary for playing an active role in problem-solving towards peacebuilding, equality preservation and sustainable development. I believe that as a global citizen, especially one that is in a position that I have the opportunity to learn and educate myself, that it is my duty and responsibility to be informed about global issues, and also to share what I have learned with my fellow peers in constructive and edifying ways.
Showing compassion for others is an important trait as a global citizen, our actions have consequences, not just around us locally but globally as well. The butterfly effect is an apt example for this Something so small can have drastic impacts when built up by our numbers. In this manner, we can also take solace in the fact that we can also make a big difference with seemingly simple changes.
To be a global citizen requires active effort and work, it is not just to sit on the sidelines waiting for change but to put on your boots and march, this can be done through advocacy, volunteering and collaboration on a myriad of issues.
Global citizens are also stewards of the earth, it is important that we preserve our planet for future generations to come, and to not only learn from the mistakes of those before us but also make sure that we do not repeat those mistakes. A me me me mentality cannot stand, we must in some ways be each other's keeper.
In my opinion, all great leaders are global citizens but not all global citizens are leaders. A perfect example of servant leadership is Jesus Christ, he exemplified what it means to put others above yourself while remaining firm in truth, walking with love and truth drew people from people different together.
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