New Energy

I have been spending more time in Kalahandi than at the GV Head Office, despite the Head Office being more comfortable. This has been partly due to the level of work in the micro hydro projects and partly due to the tension that fills my heart/mind while at the office. Though, during my last visit to Head Office recently, I discovered that there is a certain new energy that is seemingly planting itself on campus. Some new staff have come this month with a brightness that I pray will only multiply.

GV does amazing work, but it has taken a toll on those that are involved. As we try to help more communities have access to water and sanitation and other sustainable infrastructure, our human resources are increasingly challenged with communication issues, salary woes, and lack of time to meet targets. I had begun to loose hope, seeing/hearing how at levels of human resources, people were more and more unhappy and stressed.

However, this wave of new energy via a few individuals is intriguing and is helping me to be introspective. These newbies are in a good position to be themselves and appreciate the organization. Over the years, I have become only a strong critic and far from myself. I keep seeking perfection in its operations...only much later to realize that I need to take care of my imperfection first. Still, I find it very difficult to focus on myself without being selfish. Since the post Palm and Apple days, my moments have been designed around being involved with efforts that I really believe in, first LEDeG, then Green Empowerment, now Gram Vikas and Practical Action. In this process, I have nearly always prioritized my family and my research secondary to the so-called causes. ...This has caused imbalance that of course I keep ignoring.

I know that my mis-prioritizing will catch up with me sooner or later. Though now instead of being totally hard on myself, I am just watching. Watching myself make decision after decision, without judging. Watching the naunces in my moods; what makes me smile, what makes my cry, how I relate to others. I am only hoping that the non-action intentions create some positive flow that can undo the angst I've built during the last few years; and take advantage of the priceless and simple gifts I've acquired during the same chaotic time, e.g. witnessing the simplest of human needs, Nature's transient care, and such sweet and tangible moments of the Divine's intervention.

Media for Social Change

Since realizing the potential of the youth involved in the micro hydro projects, I have been dreaming about them making their own videos on issues they hold important (and entertaining) and organizing their own showings using the electricity from the micro hydro systems. ....In fact each of the project sites has a fair number of concrete stairs near the powerhouse and open space for a large screen, transforming the space amidst the forest into an outdoor theatre. ....Yes, only dreams at this point.

However, the dream is one step closer having realized the existence of MAM (http://www.mammovies.com/):

MAM: ‘I AM’ is what it means in Sanskrit. To be able to go within through the medium of stories and use our talent for the needs of the world is why we have been created.In practical terms, our effort is to:
-Support and nurture independent filmmakers who use media, the arts and technology to inform, inspire and empower others to create positive action in the world.
-Create innovative events, which will inspire youth to use Media for social change.
-Create a platform for local charities and NGOs to make professional videos for very economical price.

GRID Alternatives

Cool group in CA doing work with renewable energy and communities: http://www.gridalternatives.org/

GRID Alternatives' mission is to empower communities in need by providing renewable energy and energy efficiency services, equipment and training. Since 2001, GRID Alternatives has been working to bring the power of solar electricity and energy efficiency to low-income homeowners, and to provide community members with training and hands-on experience with renewable energy technologies. We believe making energy choices that are good for the environment can go hand-in-hand with improving the lives of those living in low-income communities.

GRID Alternatives works collaboratively with communities and local organizations to identify specific needs and to develop renewable energy solutions that are environmentally, socially and economically sustainable. Our vision of sustainable development centers on community involvement, and our focus and expertise lies in using renewable energy and energy efficiency to provide solutions to the challenges facing low-income individuals and families in the San Francisco Bay Area, Greater Los Angeles and beyond.

Dear Michelle

Dear Michelle,

I am an Indian-American, raised in Mississippi, having gone to university in California, and now working in rural India the last few years.

My experiences in India implementing community-based projects in rural areas have been difficult. With all the environmental injustice so blatantly practiced, along with all the other chaotic things happening in the world, I have found myself having little hope for the world and its inhabitants.

However, during the last few weeks, I have been gaining high spirits thanks to Senator Obama's book, Audacity of Hope. Being in a remote area isolated from media and Internet, I had not been following the race. However, having come across the book, a few weeks ago, has had a profound effect on my outlook for the world.

Great inspiration comes from Senator Obama's approach to opposition. Senator Obama has an amazing ability to look beyond his own beliefs and listen to what others are saying, in the interests of serving the marginalized. He is not afraid to engage with full respect and integrity. He seems far from the typical politician.

I can only imagine what the race has been for you and your family. I hope that your family continues to face the campaign with great heart and the best of human qualities.

For me the race gives much needed hope and inspiration. I am feeling more and more that the next best thing to world peace would be President Obama. Of course, the Presidency also has limitations...

At the same time, I am feeling helpless not being to help his campaign from so far away. ...And also very disappointed that the McCain campaign is making the worst of American thought manifest in negative, ill-conceived ads.

I hope my generation takes advantage of the opportunity to transform the ugly course the world is taking. Even if there are Americans who do not have the courage to vote for transformation, I thank the Universe for giving us Barack Obama.

Blessings to you and your family.