Civic Duty

?Happy Friday!

?Welcome to this edition of “Civic Duty” (#247).

Let me start with a story - Once upon a time, there was a King who wanted to test the honesty and integrity of his citizens and made a peculiar request: he asked every citizen to bring a single cup of milk to the palace square at dawn the next day, where a large, empty pond awaited. The king believed that if everyone contributed their share, the pond would be filled with a sea of milk, symbolizing the abundance and unity of his kingdom. We all know how it ended; instead of a sea of milk, it was an ocean of water. This story became a legend, serving as a powerful reminder that even in a seemingly insignificant act, the integrity and collective responsibility of the people can make a significant difference.

In contrast let me share this remarkable instance of unity: the story ?of thousands of people coming together to light 2.5 million lamps on the auspicious Hindu festival, Deepavali, on Thursday night, on the banks of the river Sarayu, in the north Indian city of Ayodhya. This event not only set a world record but also demonstrated the incredible impact of collective action. The radiant glow from the lamps illuminated the entire city, creating a breathtaking sight and a profound sense of togetherness and shared purpose. Each lamp, though seemingly insignificant on its own, contributed to a collective brilliance that symbolized hope, triumph, and the potential of united effort.

In a democratic country, one such opportunity for citizens to display their collective responsibility and make a significant difference is by casting their votes in an election. But did you know that what we now take for granted—the right to vote for every citizen—was only signed into law as recently as 1965? Although the 15th Amendment, which guaranteed this right to vote for everyone, was ratified in 1870, it took generations of people over the course of 95 years to challenge, demand, and fight for this right. Countless leaders sacrificed their lives to make voting a fundamental right for every citizen. It's thanks to their perseverance and dedication to the cause that we are now able to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

With that in mind, I make a sincere appeal to cast your vote.

So, as you go about your day, remember the potential you hold to inspire and enact change. Your vote, your participation, your willingness to engage counts. Embrace your civic duty with pride and take meaningful steps to contribute to the greater good.

Let me conclude with this powerful statement by one of the civil rights leader, Coretta Scott King: “It doesn’t matter how strong your opinions are if you don’t use your power for [a] change.”

Stay safe, Stay healthy and Stay blessed.?Thank you and have a safe weekend.