Nick Vujivic and Serenity

Yesterday, my immediate reaction to the attack on Nick Vujivic's visit in VN was:

"When I worked on these issues, the biggest barrier is the mental barriers of those who need to open more doors and opportunities to the disabilities. I'm not sure how much is enough but if a lot of money could start changing social attitude on a large scale so eventually a tipping point will come, that's justified. Those people are strong and capable - money donated doesn't solve the bigger issue of care and love. 

For those who want to balance business vs. social impacts: 
a. maybe we could look at this whole show in perspective with the movies & music industry? what can a great movie (say Titanic) create in tangible terms but re-ignite some seeds in people's hearts and minds? a lot of people invest in books - if it's a good message for people who need it, then PR is necessary so more people could benefit from hearing message.

b. I haven't looked up how much money is it to bring Korean pop stars to VN but the ticket price is costly and the whole budget will be more than 1US$ million - and what's more eye-opening here? :)

c. we are all humans and attracted by beauty, good messages, good delivery etc. The most successful non-profits (and even governments) understand this and sell their image well to achieve their good causes, rather than just relying on the fact that people could be generous and selfless (on why our Vietnamese heroes don't make it yet on PR...)"

And today, I heard many comments on how bad our society is for having young people unable to see goodness.

It's not important to me which arguments I should use anymore.  I still see hope.  I still see millions of Vietnamese being touched and inspired.  It could be a temporary fad - it could last long - no one, even Nick, has control over it.  But one thing I know, miracles happen when hearts are softened.

Let's not focus on something "yet to be good" and remember Nick's central message:
"Do you know why I love God?" Nick Vujicic asked a young girl on stage who, like him, was born without arms and legs. "Because heaven is real. And one day when we get to heaven, we are going to have arms and legs. And we are going to run, and we are going play, and we are going to race."

And here's the Serenity Prayer, so our hearts still hold hopes:

"God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference."


Love,

Tu, May 2013

Next

As I'm preparing mentally for my next chapter, I can't help but to be thankful for how lucky I have been.  From the opportunities that crossed my path to the people who are truly amazing, smart, idealistic, energetic, inspiring young people who all want to do something for others, for Vietnam.  The ride was not all that rosy - there were times that I did not think I could make it, running out of energy. 

But I'm happy to know I did not give up my conviction and dreams.  This time, I will get to live one of my childhood dreams (among many others): to live in a big city, to dance, to play piano, to read and study about children, to open my eyes to new cultures and new places.  This time again, I'm looking forward to more explorations and in the journey, becoming a person who is even more ready to take on more ambitions.