• In what ways are you connected to people in different parts of the world? Do you have obligations to them? If yes, what obligations do you have? What role does empathy play in Global Citizenship? Learning about global citizenship has broadened my knowledge of my responsibility to the world and to other people no matter where they are in the world. I strongly believe that we are all connected in some ways and our actions could affect anyone. For instance, as simple as not littering to bodies of water. Ocean is connected anywhere in the world, one garbage from a place could reach as far as another continent and harm its nature. Therefore, it is our obligation to understand how a simple act could cause an impact to someone and somewhere. Empathy, being the ability to understand and share the feelings of another plays a big role in being a Global Citizen. It helps us see and experience the complex and unique perspective of the rest of the world different from ours. This quote I read by Suzy Kasse, from her book Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem describes, using a metaphor of a giant tree and a small leaf, that people are all connected to the same roots.
The world citizen is a small leaf on the giant tree of life. They do not see a difference between the branch they were born on and the remaining branches on the tree, because they understand well that we are all connected to the same roots. The world citizen sees each section of the world as part of their arm, leg, eyes, and heart. They do not class, contain or separate themselves or their identity by ethnicity or religion -- because they see their existence as a small part of a greater whole. When asked about their religion, the world citizen simply replies: 'My heart.”
It is an effective expression that shows how global citizens play a role in the world.
• Return to your first blog entry. Has your definition of Global Citizenship changed? If yes, how?
Returning to my early definition of Global Citizenship, I still believe that it means understanding and being aware of the world and the uniqueness of everyone. It is about bringing a global perspective and sharing it to home and to one’s community. However, as we moved forward through the course, I realized a lot more about the meaning of Global Citizenship. As we reflect on topics of globalization, citizenship, and global governance, a global citizen acknowledges these topics, the consequences, and identify ways to grow and improve.
• Why do you think the phrase “Think Global, Act Local” is popular? What is the connection between the two?
The phrase “Think Global, Act Local” has been a popular way to describe environmental and sustainability approaches. This phrase has gained popularity because people are understanding the importance of our social and environmental responsibilities. It could also be applied in many aspects of societies especially with the increase of globalization. The idea and call for action is for people to start within their household, community, neighbourhood, and cities. Eventually, the small actions would resonate little by little and therefore would create impact globally.