Posted December 1, 2011 by Rachelle Owen
The short answer? Hell, yes!
Next time you’re in the hallway gathering petitions or handing out leaflets and someone so snidely tells you that “one person can’t possibly make a difference” or that “you’re wasting your time,” don’t let it get you down!
One person CAN make a difference—and it’s important to remember that all social-justice movements were led at some point by “just one person” (or just a couple of people) who realized that a societal norm was cruel, unethical, and unjust. Just think: Everyone didn’t stand up at the same time and fight racism and slavery—it was just a few people at first who held demonstrations, fought back, and led a revolution. These people were game-changers—dedicated, passionate, and willing to stand out from a crowd that clung to cruelty and racism just because they were what people were used to. Sound familiar?
The same goes for women’s rights and gay rights—it has always been the brave, dedicated few who turn the tide.
It’s also important to remember that you are leading a mini-revolution near you! Changing your friends’ minds, educating them on the ways that animals are exploited and how they can help, and making personal choices that are positive instead of negative—all of that matters. Every choice that you make makes a big difference for animals—don’t forget it!
Revolutions aren’t easy. They’re not quick. And they’re definitely not painless—but they happen, and we will win.
peta2 Street Team Coordinator + lover of vegan food, cats, animal rights, Dawson's Creek, and Harry Potter.
Too long to explain here, it's long enough for a novel.
Father loves to farm, be self sustainable, loves to read, he's a antiques/vintage auctioneer, art student, and looks like mr. Rogers. My mother is a Montessori teacher and is amazing with children, all about local organic foods, loves gardening, cooking etc. my sister who is nine years older than me was into indie music and introduced me to all sorts of things at a young age. This all rubbed of on me and from that base I grew into similar things. I'm an INFJ
I'm tall, a geek, nacho - obsessed, I love sewing and Cath Kidston, also I'm vegetarian (wannabe vegan.)
Jersey girl now I'm all country.
I love animals about as much as rock, heavy metal, tea, and coffee. Hoping to make a difference and help animals through PETA!!!
Life On A Tour Bus
I am Angela. When I am not helping animals I am listening to music, reading, or playing video games. My spirit animal is a fox and I love nature. What else is there to know? Want to know anything about me, need advice or anything message me :)
Well let's just say life ain't always beautiful but it's a beautiful ride. I love all my pets and would do anything for them. I have one dog, two cats, a ferret and my babygirl shaymin,(the cutest hedgehog alive) I'm into all different kinds of music. I'm a singer myself and love art.
62 days ago
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Hi, i think that i saw you visited my web site so i came to go back the favor?.I’m trying to in finding issues to enhance my web site!I suppose its ok to use some of your ideas!!
497 days ago
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“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever does” ~ Margaret Mead
^one of my fave quotes, right there.
529 days ago
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Dear Rachel. Thank you for the article. I think there are many times when one has doubts and especially when it comes to animals as they cannot ‘voice’ their opinion regarding the ‘actions’ one takes on their behalf.
Mother Teresa was probably ‘one’ person who took action, and had the following to say “We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”
I liked your last paragraph, and am going to add it to my collection of quotations. I would appreciate it if you would let me know if you are full time with PETA or a freelancer. Regards, Allan.
536 days ago
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Perfect timing for me 2! My 12 yo granddaughter is trying to take on the Fort Worth school system to stop fetal pig dissection & was hysterically in tears today when some school bullies ripped her signed petition to shreds. She’s a PETA Kid & I’ll send her this for inspiration. Thank you!
536 days ago
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One person CAN make a difference, a huge difference.
It just takes time and effort to make the change.
536 days ago
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that was perfect time for me to read, i just had to listen to people being mean to me cuz i’m vegan. thanks