We are all on this Earth together

The world has become a much smaller place. Through the technological wonders of computers and the internet we now have instant communications and the opportunity to build and maintain friendships worldwide.

This brings us to a new threshold in the global exchange of ideas and information. This gives us the chance to look at problems we face with a new perspective and seek new types of solutions.

The new communication technologies allow for a very de-centralized type of exchange. No longer are top-down systems needed, or even useful.

Now anyone with a basic level of economic security is part of the global exchange of ideas and has access to the global markets as well.

However, one in six people on the Earth suffer with chronic hunger and lack access to clean water, much less computer access.

It is high time that we recognize as a basic right a minimum level of security for all members of our human family.  Every person on Earth must have access to clean water, sufficient food, clothing, shelter and the opportunity to an education.

In the past many considered poverty inevitable.  People chose to ignore the condition of the impoverished or assuage there sense of guilt or shame by occasional charitable gifts to "maintain the poor". Unfortunately, "maintaining the poor" simply perpetuates poverty.

The alternative approach is to strive for a transformation of the condition of poverty. In the past this usually translated into political struggles for power. And still, the condition of poverty prevails even if political power shifts and new parties seize the reigns of government.

But today perhaps - in the "information age" - we have the chance to try a new approach.

What's called for is an experimental approach of mutual aid across class lines, across national borders and across the digital divide. We must seek new ideas and new approaches to what until now have often been considered problems with no solutions.

The technologies of the internet, the wisdom of solar energy, the creativity of experimental builders and the knowledge of sustainable agriculturalists can change the course of human life on this planet.

Certainly there is an immediate need in many circumstances for direct material assistance - food and clothing and some building supplies and educational supplies - the longer term goal is the development of sustainable housing and agriculture and viable new industries that encourage long term economic security and a true membership in the global community.

We are all on this Earth together. The planetary resources - indeed the very air we breathe and the water we drink - are all interdependent on the same sources. Ultimately the solutions we find to aid those that now suffer in poverty - solutions that will be sustainable and encourage both the local and global community - will help folks on both sides of what is now a greater divide. With sustainable approaches we will all have hope for a future we can share.