Our world is filled with issues. Some of them affect our communities and others affect our world on a global scale. These are not issues that we can simply ignore. This is why there are programs like Turn the Tables that allows us to host a dinner and openly talk about the big issues that are all around us. The goal is to bring the issues out into the open where they can be discussed and thought about. It is the only way to get them out in the open so that a solution can be found.
Our Major Issues
There are some very big issues going on. They range from environmental issues to political crisis. There are issues that impact our economic stability and then there are also social issues that we deal with in our communities. Every country has their own set of unique problems as well. Children are being impacted by poverty, Africa is dealing with poverty and diseases, many places are dealing with overpopulation, public safety is a thing of the past, and people within the U.S. are homeless and going without food. Each day when we watch the news there is some new information on the potential for war and discrimination. Climate change is also mentioned quite a bit and as we have seen in other countries, our rights to choose our own religion are even being questioned. The time has come when we cannot turn our head to avoid looking at the problems that are there.
Opening Conversations
Not all issues can be solved with ease. Global warming is something that can only be changed with years of effort. Other issues, such as starvation and homelessness within our communities can be dealt with a little easier, but it will still be a challenge that will require everyone to help out some. Providing more jobs for those who need them will be a great first step, but beyond that we must also try to provide more food drives for the hungry and housing for families in need. You can host a dinner party and then work the conversation toward these issues. You can start off by encouraging others to set can foods out beside the road weekly or monthly so that homeless individuals or those who need it can take it without having to visit a homeless shelter. You can work together to set up a church event where once a month or so your church will host a dinner for people in need where they can come get warm food to eat without charge or judgement. Each person there can provide a food item to the feast. After that, you can talk about donations toward turning an old abandoned building into mini-apartments or something for low income or needy families to go, and work toward providing those people with jobs. Even raking a yard for $20 can help someone who has very little to have a chance at survival or warmth for the night.
Change the World
As everyone begins to work together on major issues, more can be done to help others outside of your community. You and your closest friends can make a positive impact that will last well beyond your time here on Earth. It starts with you being willing to put the issues out there, on the table.