How can YOU participate?
First, let’s address the state of reality concerning social media. It’s here to stay. Many people are active participants posting, commenting and clicking here and there. But the opposite is true of more people than you realize. They scan, read headlines, search for information, follow links and even stalk! We believe most people are quiet on the issues — especially the political issues. Politics and religion — two subjects people often try to avoid completely. While our friends do have opinions, they may not "make noise" about the state of our union “out loud” on a public forum. Most people keep their opinions to themselves. At a minimum, we express them to our closest inner circle, our safe zone. It’s now time to expand your circle of influence.
How to make a change?
Posting on Facebook, hitting send after typing those magical 280 Twitter characters, or uploading a video to YouTube or TikTok, in hopes of changing the world is not nearly as effective as the one-on-one connecting you experience every day with your family, friends and co-workers — if your goal is lasting change. Lasting change starts from the
inside out. You can’t force it on others. You can only share your story.
How can you get started?
Start this process by leveraging relationships outside your inner circle and look for opportunities to share how you feel. If you wear one of our MyPledgeUSA shirts, you are bound to strike up conversations! We desire to help you start those conversations, one at a time. The information we have provided is a tool for you to use. We hope you
will find it helpful.
How to do it peacefully?
Keep in mind, this is about engaging in peaceful conversations, not developing a list of
one-liners, zingers and put downs in hopes of putting people in their place. We need
open dialog, which involves listening! Don’t forget that’s part of the art of
communicating. Two ears, one mouth — someone must have told you that at some
point in your life!
Each of us can influence and encourage change.
People change their mind all the time. Unhealthy eaters decide to eat better; self-proclaimed couch potatoes start exercising; people who live in the cold north say: “enough” and move south; we change jobs; we change careers; many people change religions — and the list goes on. Why assume people won’t revisit the conversation about the state of our country? This can start with an honest conversation.
Best way to do this?
Before anything else, find something to agree on. Find the common good and common values we share. Stop expecting a word battle when conversing. Be a strong ambassador for your side of the conversation, but be open to listen and hear. The end result of standing together, standing firm and being accountable to one another is a great first step toward lasting change.