With only a few hours left before 2008, I find myself, as I do every year, reflecting on the highs and lows of the past twelve months. As we approach the tradition of New Year’s resolutions, I look back with hope that the coming year will bring meaningful progress. I’m not saying each new year is worse than the last, but the improvements often feel marginal—if they exist at all.
The environment has become a critical issue, freedom of speech is under threat in many countries for various reasons (I can’t help but mention the assassination of Pakistan’s former Prime Minister and opposition leader, Benazir Bhutto, just days ago), peace movements continue to be suppressed (Burma: Aung San Suu Kyi and a thousand monks. Again.), and volunteers working for humanitarian organizations put their lives at risk every day.
It happens year after year, reinforcing what I once wrote about Darfur: when History is a never ending story. And yet, amidst the darkness, the dedication and perseverance of those fighting for change offer a glimmer of hope—though real progress often takes years, decades, even centuries. I have deep admiration for the volunteers working in some of the most dangerous regions, especially in Africa. Their efforts go far beyond emergency relief; non-profits also provide crucial support in prevention, legal aid, literacy, education, and financial assistance across both developing and industrialized nations. It may sound obvious, but these individuals, working tirelessly and often without recognition, are the backbone of humanitarian efforts.
Recently, I had an insightful conversation with a friend’s husband who spent nearly 20 years as a doctor running a mobile clinic across Africa. His unwavering commitment changed not only his life but the lives of countless others. Speaking with people like him is always eye-opening—it reshapes your perspective. We also spoke about Darfur. Nearly four years ago, we signed a petition to raise political and public awareness, and at the time, he never imagined it would take so long for people to truly grasp the gravity of the crisis. When we first discussed it in late 2003 or early 2004, few people were paying attention. Yet, many of my acquaintances only became aware of Darfur in 2006 or 2007—after George Clooney returned from Sudan and brought the issue to the spotlight.
Similarly, I saw a surge of environmental concern only after Al Gore’s documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, was released. It’s an interesting paradox—an actor once dubbed “the world’s sexiest man” and a politician who “used to be the next President of the United States” became the catalysts for mainstream awareness of these critical issues. I don’t question their dedication; in fact, I respect their ability to use their platform for good. But I’ve spoken with aid workers who find the contrast striking—the stark reality of their work in the field versus the glamour of high-profile advocacy.
That’s why I believe all initiatives and those involved in them deserve our full support. And by our, I mean all of us—as citizens of the world, not just of our own countries. Whether we donate money, volunteer our time, or simply raise awareness, every action matters. Even something as simple as sharing information can have an impact—after all, Reporters Without Borders reminds us: “Don’t wait to be deprived of news to stand up and fight for it.”
It’s easy to turn away from issues that feel distant, but I believe it’s essential to care—not just about what happens within our own borders but also beyond them. Staying curious about the world is crucial if we hope to address the challenges we face.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of non-profit organizations I support or personally know people working with—Claude, John, Jeremy, Elena, Greg, Bouni… and many others. As we step into 2008, I want to take a moment to acknowledge their incredible work.
As the saying goes: Tall oaks from little acorns grow.
I wish to all of you a peaceful and healthy New Year! ^_^