The two sides of the same coin

Power is an aspect that has always been floating around in our world for as long as we can remember. Power can comes in all kinds of shapes and colors and it is natural for one to want the entire collection. Kahane’s view on power is something I cannot disagree on. “Power is how we make a difference in the world; it is the means by which new social realities are created. Without power, nothing new grows” (13). This statement really stood out to me because it is something I can agree on. When I think about history, a lot of change has happened due to power. With the power president Lincoln had, he was able to abolish slavery; with the will power Bill Gates had, he was able to give rise to the computer industry; with the power of love the Martin Luther King Jr. had, he was able to put an end to segregation in America. No matter what kind of power, it has given change. Unfortunately, power is not so one sided as to just do good for society. “Power-over abuses force and compulsion to suppress or oppress or dominate another” (17). There are many occasions where power for self-interest does not do good for society and would sometimes harm others. A burglar has the power to rob a bank for money or a rapist overpowers a victim out of lust. Depending on how power is handled, it can bring about a good change for society in small or large scales. It can also bring about harm to both society and individuals. With great power comes great responsibility.
My experience in gleaning was very enjoyable. I had a lot of fun and gleaning would do some good for the community. Though it was in a small scale, I used my power to glean for the community. In doing this, I feel like I’m taking very small baby steps into creating change. Rather then using my power for material possessions, I used for my desire for change and the moral fiber. The community leaders use their power of leadership to create changes for the better in their perspectives. Individually, this effort is rather miniscule. With all of our efforts combined, we will make a difference and something will grow for the better.