With Obama days away from taking office, Gaza still in turmoil and the economy crumbling with all governing bodies using masking tape to hold as much together as possible, we are at the start of the 2009. Almost at it's 2nd week, what have we achieved so far as aspiring Pathways?

Deepening Knowledge for sure, but with a sense of autonomy, do we meld what we know into a daily ritual, a disciplined routine? For me, a resounding, Almost. The traveling and holiday mood has disrupted my musing schedule for change, but has not stopped me from opening up my world and eyes to the different Activist Cultures, America had to offer.

I met up with a good friend over there in Seattle. She is pursuing her Master's in Non-Profit Leadership and Management in University of Washington. I know, incredible they offer that over there. I asked,"why not do it in Singapore or at least in South East Asia?" Her response was filled subtle disappointment, "there is non there, Dennet. Doing it in Seattle, allows me to work with world class Philanthropic Organizations and Foundations. The dream being Bill & Malinda Gates Foundation."

I went WOW. I remember thinking to myself, why not have the same or at least similar opportunities here in Singapore and the local region? Is it not fundamental that we get proficient expert talent to educate us the finer points of, Volunteer Leadership, Funding drives and public relations that leave the all in contact breathless and emotionally connected to the initiative concerned?

With all, i have learned from her about the profile and creatively industrious minds behind social activism, i proceeded to venture out on my own and do some case studies... (i am compiling my learning and materials into a slide show.)

I stumbled into a rustic bookstore near Pioneer Square in Seattle. I wish i had the brains to take more photos of the place, all that i took was a single picture of the most interesting section of books they had. (most interesting in my own humble opinion)

The Activist Section!!! Oh my god.... they had their very own section in the store... Two large bookshelves dedicated to improving Activist knowledge. I was astounded, flabbergasted. I have seen the future of Pathway and it's purpose to fuel EnoughTalk. The dream of starting my very own Scholastic and Creative Center for Activist and the general public seemed more real, and much more achievable from that moment on.....



So my plan is not only to live the activist life, but to enrich this region will all knowledge and opportunity to make a difference in this region. But Rome wasn't built in a day, and i will start laying bricks. The first of which is this post.

I urge you guys to start burning the flame bigger and brighter. BE the light unto darkness, we can and we will.

Love
D