Knowing that everything changes and how things change gives you power. Sometimes people say, "What difference can one person make?" When you understand that each drop adds up to make a mighty ocean, you know you are important. Every vote counts; every voice matters; that extra bit of effort may be all it takes to reach a turning point. Every step in a long journey brings you closer to your goal.

Of course, some things are not possible--building a sand castle on the beach will not hold back the tide. The serenity prayer offers some sound advice-- "Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

Dialectics provides the tool that gives you the wisdom to work steadily and patiently for change--building the side you want to win, studying how much farther you need to go and what you need to do to make a turning point. When all of your bits of effort are added to other people's, great things can be accomplished--buildings are built, railroads are run, games are won, diseases are defeated, space ships are launched.

 

Dialectics also teaches us to look at all sides of a problem. The saying, "He who knows only his own side knows little of it," applies here. Knowing that change can only occur when one side overcomes the opposing side teaches us to learn about both sides' strengths and weaknesses.

 

If we want to create a world with food, clothing, shelter, health, and a bright future for all, we can do it. Dialectics teaches that change is within our power. Now all there is left to do is to make it happen.



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