മാധ്യമ രംഗത്തെ മഹാരഥന്മാർ ഒരു ചെറുകഥ പരമ്പരയാണ്. ഇത് പക്ഷെ കഥയല്ല കാര്യമാണ്. ഇത് ഗ്ലോബൽ ടി വിയുടെ ചരിത്രകഥയുമാണ്.

“എഴുതപ്പെട്ടതുപോലെ അതും നിറവേറി…” (As it is written, it was fulfilled) reminds us of the words from the Bible about God’s promises and prophecies coming to pass in the fullness of time.

“So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

തൻ്റെ വിഖ്യാതമായ കൃതി The Alchemist-ൽ പൗലോ കോയലോ എഴുതിയ ഒരു പ്രധാന പ്രമേയം ഓരോ വ്യക്തിക്കും തങ്ങളുടെ ജീവിതത്തിൽ ഒരു പ്രത്യേക ലക്ഷ്യം (Personal Legend) ഉണ്ടെന്ന് തിരിച്ചറിയുക എന്നതാണ്.

ആൽക്കമിസ്ടിൻ്റെ പ്രമേയം ഇങ്ങനെ പറയുന്നു: “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” (നിങ്ങൾ എന്തെങ്കിലും ആഗ്രഹിക്കുന്നിടത്ത്, ആ ആഗ്രഹം പൂർത്തിയാക്കാൻ സർവ്വപ്രപഞ്ചവും നിങ്ങളെ സഹായിക്കുന്നു).

ജീവിതത്തിൻ്റെ അർത്ഥം കണ്ടെത്താത്തവരും, സ്വപ്നങ്ങളും ലക്ഷ്യങ്ങളും പിന്തുടരാത്തവരും, പലപ്പോഴും അവരുടെ ജീവിതത്തിൻ്റെ മുഖ്യ ദൗത്യം കാണാതെയും അറിയാതെയും കടന്നു പോകുന്നു എന്നാണ് ആൽക്കമിസ്ട് മനുഷ്യരോടെല്ലാം പറയാൻ ശ്രമിക്കുന്നത്.

In The Alchemist, Melchizedek, the king of Salem, plays a key role in helping the protagonist, Santiago on his journey to discover his Personal Legend. Melchizedek appears as a mysterious old man, revealing himself to be a wise king. Santiago is initially skeptical, but Melchizedek shares insights that surprise and intrigue him, convincing Santiago that he has a unique destiny.

Melchizedek introduces Santiago to the concept of a “Personal Legend,” explaining that each person has a purpose in life; a dream or calling they are meant to fulfil. He encourages Santiago not to ignore his dream of finding treasure near the pyramids in Egypt, warning him of the dangers of settling for a comfortable but unfulfilled life. Melchizedek even shares the story of the miner and the emerald to illustrate that persistence often leads to the greatest rewards, and he emphasizes the idea that “when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

To help Santiago take the first step, Melchizedek gives him magical stones, Urim and Thummim, to guide him when he faces difficult choices. After this encounter, Santiago sells his flock of sheep, using the money to set off on his journey in pursuit of his Personal Legend. Melchizedek’s brief but impactful appearance serves as a catalyst for Santiago, setting him on the path toward self-discovery and ultimately, his life’s purpose.

വഴി അറിയാത്തവരും വഴി വിട്ട് സഞ്ചരിക്കുന്നവരും മനസ്സിലാക്കേണ്ട വലിയൊരു സത്യം നമ്മുടെ പൂർവ്വികർ ചെറിയൊരു പഴംചൊല്ലിലൂടെ പറഞ്ഞു വച്ചിട്ടുണ്ട്. പതിയെ തിന്നാൽ പനയും തിന്നാം എന്നതാണ് ആ പഴഞ്ചൊല്ല്.

Our ancestors conveyed a profound truth through a simple proverb: “If you eat from the root, little by little, you can eat the entire palm eventually.” This wise saying teaches us that understanding the foundation or root cause of a problem allows us to tackle its manifestations or consequences effectively. It emphasizes the importance of addressing the source, rather than just dealing with symptoms.

Address the issue in affordable units. Create models and bring in more people to scale up the solution.

This timeless wisdom encourages an understanding of the real issues, critical thinking, and holistic problem-solving.

Every problem has a solution within. Problem and solution are the two sides of a problem.

What we need in the world today is Economic Innovations. Like we propose plenty of recipes for tasty food, we should be able to present plenty of career recipes and also should allow everyone to choose the best according to their tastes and interests.

“Our ancestors said, ‘Eat from the root, and eventually, you’ll enjoy the whole palm.’ This proverb teaches us to:

1. Address problems at their root cause.
2. Break down big issues into manageable parts.
3. Find solutions within.

Today’s world needs Economic Innovations. Just as we have many recipes for delicious food, we should have various career paths to choose from, allowing everyone to pick what suits their taste and interests.

Solve problems holistically, and empower people with choices.”

“Address problems at their root, and solutions will grow. Break issues into manageable parts. Empower people with choices. This ancient wisdom inspires Economic Innovations for a better world.”

Unite Against Poverty and Hunger: Empowering Change on World Food Day and International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Article Inspired by Fr Cedric Prakash SJ’s reflection

As the calendar reaches October 16th and 17th, we are reminded of two crucial Universal Days: World Food Day and the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. These consecutive days serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing crisis of hunger and poverty that persists both in India and across the globe. Fr Cedric Prakash SJ’s words offer a sobering reflection on the widespread and systemic challenges, urging us to act with purpose and conviction.

The Alarming Reality

India, a land abundant with resources, is paradoxically home to millions who go without daily essentials. The figures are staggering and serve as an indictment of the inequities that continue to divide society. As of 2022, 220 million people in India live with hunger (FAO). According to the World Bank, 30% of the world’s extreme poor reside in India, and 70% of the Indian population survives on less than ₹220 per day (NSSO, 2020). These statistics paint a grim picture of inequality and deprivation.

Globally, the situation is equally distressing. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that 820 million people suffer from hunger across the globe. Meanwhile, 736 million people live in extreme poverty, struggling to survive on less than $1.90 a day (World Bank, 2022). These alarming figures reflect a deep-rooted crisis that calls for immediate, transformative action.

The Unsettling Truth

The chasm between wealth and poverty continues to widen, with a privileged few amassing vast fortunes while millions struggle with basic survival. This stark inequality not only reflects systemic injustice but perpetuates cycles of hunger and poverty. The marginalized remain locked in this cycle, their opportunities limited by structures that benefit the elite.

In this context, Fr Cedric Prakash SJ’s reflection is a call to action: “The hope to change this lies in our collective courage to address and take a stand today against the structural and endemic causes of poverty and injustice.”

Empowering Interventions: How We Can Make a Difference

The road to a just and equitable society is challenging, but achievable if we unite and take decisive action. Fr Cedric Prakash SJ’s message offers hope that through courage and solidarity, we can make meaningful change. Empowering interventions are essential, and each of us plays a vital role in creating a better world. Here are several ways we can contribute to this cause:

Advocating for Policy Reforms

Governments and policymakers hold the power to implement transformative reforms. We must advocate for policies that address poverty, hunger, and inequality at both national and international levels. From providing social safety nets to ensuring food security, robust policy frameworks are crucial to uplift the underprivileged.

Supporting Mass Movements and Individual Initiatives

Countless number of people are working tirelessly to address food insecurity at grassroots level.  By supporting their collective efforts can help expand their reach and impact. Food Packets, Financial contributions and active participations however small, can provide life-changing opportunities for those in need.

Volunteering Time and Skills

Volunteering is a powerful tool for creating change. Whether it’s working at a local food bank, teaching skills to those in marginalized communities, or helping massive programs, your time can make a tangible difference in someone’s life. Engage with grassroots initiatives in your local community that address poverty and hunger head-on.

Educating Ourselves and Others

Understanding the root causes of poverty and hunger is essential for dismantling them. We need to engage in continuous learning about the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality, from broken economic chains to unfair practices. Sharing this knowledge with others can spark greater awareness and mobilize broader support for change.

Holding Leaders Accountable

Leadership at all levels must be held accountable for addressing the crises of poverty and hunger. By engaging in constructive dialogue with local, national, and global leaders, we can demand transparent and effective action. Voting in elections, advocating for ethical leadership, and participating in civic processes are powerful ways to push for lasting reforms.

Create Momentum; Initiate or Join the Movement

The time for change is now. This World Food Day and International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, we are presented with an opportunity to unite in solidarity for a world free from hunger and poverty. Here’s how you can join the movement:

• Share Stories of Resilience and Hope
• Amplify Voices of Marginalized Communities
• Participate in Local Events and Campaigns
• Donate to Reputable Initiatives
• Engage in Constructive Dialogue with People

Together, We Can Break the Cycle

The eradication of poverty and hunger requires a collective, sustained effort. It’s about more than temporary relief; it’s about dismantling the structures that perpetuate these crises and replacing them with systems that prioritize justice, equity, and dignity for all. We can break the cycle of poverty and hunger by working together to build a society where every person has access to nutritious food and the opportunity to thrive.

Fr Cedric Prakash SJ’s words challenge us to act with courage and determination: “Let us unite in our collective courage to create a world where no one is left behind.”

Take the First Step Today

The question is no longer “What can be done?” but rather, “Will we do it?” The first step toward eradicating poverty and hunger begins with each of us. Whether through advocating for change, volunteering, educating, or donating, every action counts. Will you join the movement to eradicate poverty and hunger? Together, we can make a profound and lasting impact.