Pride and Privaledge

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There by the grace of God go I.
This statement gives us a lot to be thankful for, because as we view the world around us and become aware that much of the world's population live in or close to poverty as has been identified from an humanitarian perspective

As indicated in:
http://www.globalissues.org/issue/2/causes-of-poverty
For if we look we do not have to look very far before we can see both privaladge and poverty!
And subsequently a lack or fulfillment of Pride as to where one sees themselves along the spectrum of poverty- privaladge

But what's the difference. One word really education and the ability of the host nation to educate its population.

Because to have this requires good solid infrastructure.

But at the same stage at some point we do need to take a step back and reflect on the "intentions" of this developed education system.

But my purpose for writing today is related to my own position. I would suggest that in the greater scheme of things I live a privileged yet fairly modest life but at times I reflect on that privilege to determine my future directions as well as to think of all the things that I have to show GRATITUDE for. To have the resources to live a comfortable life that demonstrates achievement.

But I am well a major life event away from that being a very different story. Hence the quote "by the grace of god go I"

I do have to say though there are occasions I question what makes so special as to be spared a life of poverty, and disadvantage! Also as a person of privilege it serves nobody for me to live small. As is indicated by my favourite quote from Nelson Mandela:

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. Nelson Mandela/ Timo Cruz in Coach Carter

 Pic Source

So I live large with the understanding and awareness of those who do share the same privilege and assist in ways I am able.

For all it is worth an understanding that from an economic perspective that at some point there comes a time when having MORE AND MORE money does not create greater happiness so we have to ask why some continue to chase money when they have millions.

Poverty is not a requirement of the human condition and all SHOULD have access to a quality education that meets the needs of a wide range of stakeholders including parents, government, industry, and the individual learners who participate.

In speaking of poverty our AGE is an interesting time.  An AGE of of rapid change and a growing sense of closeness to the global issues but at the same time a time of growing sense of of DIS ease across the first world.  Where Mental Health issues are said to make up a significant sector of the global disease burden.

Dr Natalie Frazer in Asia Australia Mental Health here stated that:

Neuro-psychiatric conditions are the number one contributor to non-communicable disease
burden worldwide. Including disorders such as schizophrenia, mood disorders, substance abuse
and dementia, these conditions contribute more to global disease burden than cancer or
cardiovascular disease.

But also within this growing issue people are becoming more open to taking a serious look at these issues particularly through the medium of educational games.

And from a perspective on the title smart educators and particularly Australia within the new Early years learning framework newly employed within the Australian Early childhood National Quality Famework.  Has understood the power of learning through the medium of GAMES.  To make education fun and engaging.

It is said that the latest gaming craze that is going viral is a game called Dafor is dying is going gang busters and if anyone is interested and would like a few more games about global issues you can look here.....http://gamesined.wikispaces.com/Global+Issues

and the idea of games of play for learning is as old as The first Peoples of the NATIONS of AUSTRALIA.

In fact I experienced education in a Khoisan village when I travelled to an educational conference in South Africa in 1998 or something.  The teacher in that school had only a black board a building and some hard floor and she had the children engaged much more than i have seen many children in many of our schools today.

It could also be said that true inclusion comes through games which are universal have rules and systems in place with checks and balanaces.  Much like the game of LIFE but the intent of the game is to show and display great ability with great respect for your opponent and play with spirit and the joy of particapation.

If we are all able to do this and walk off the metaphorical field knowing that we:

"Did good, Played strong"- Jack Gibson.

Then,    
THEN WE CAN ALL STAND WITH PRIDE!