1. Stay informed

The mainstream media--newspapers, radio and TV news--is corporate owned, meaning their foremost concern is making money for their advertisers, NOT getting the truth out. Some news sources are owned by politically-biased individuals whose opinions determine how the news is presented by their newspapers, TV and radio stations. An example is Fox News (Channel 2 in Detroit) that is owned by media-magnate Rupert Murdoch, a self-identified Bush supporter and right-wing idealogue.

The best place to get news is on the internet. I use a combination of web sites to stay informed. My favorites are:

http://www.commondreams.org
http://www.truthout.org
http://www.alternet.org
http:juancole.com (Iraq expert)
http://www.fair.org (Fairness & Accuracy in Reporting)
http://www.bushgreenwatch.org (Bush & the environment)

2. Think for yourself but don't take on the world just yet

It is hard to buck the tide. Often persons who are beginning to think for themselves make the mistake of trying to argue their newly-formed viewpoints with family and friends who see things in the "old" way. Then they get discouraged because they can't articulate or back up their views with the facts they need, and often end up feeling hurt, angry and confused.

This is NOT the time to take on the world; it is the time to work things out for yourself. Later, when you are more firmly grounded in the facts that back up your opinions, you can debate your views with the best of them. But don't rush it. Take the time to consider what you're discovering, assess this new information in light of your previous life experiences, and come to your own conclusions. Practice the fine art of critical analysis.

3. Join with like-minded individuals and groups

Keep your ears open and you will soon hear friends or acquaintances expressing opinions similar to your own. Seek these people out and discuss issues and ideas with them. There will often be groups or organizations already in existence that are filled with people who share your newly-formed opinions about things. Ask around and see what's available.

If there does not seem to be the group or organization you want, start one! This is easier than it sounds. It may simply be a gathering of 2-3 persons who get together regularly to discuss issues. Don't be afraid to start small. And use all the help you can find. If there's a group you admire that has a web site--no matter where they are located--email them and ask for advice on starting a similar group in your own area. Most people are delighted to see their movement grow and will offer all the help you need. That's how our Raging Grannies Without Borders started here in Detroit. We couldn't have done it without the advice and encouragement of Raging Grannies all over Canada and the U.S. Besides, that's where we got our first songsand continue to get most of them!

4. Bring your creative gifts to the work

It's important to share ideas and thoughts, but there's nothing like creativity to get things going. Whether it be music, movement, art, writing, performance, drama, dance or any of the myriad forms of creativity, bringing these gifts to your work for justice not only increases the effectiveness of your efforts, but makes it WAY more fun! Don't get caught in the tried-and-true trap; do something COMPLETELY different, if that is your desire. Being creative means making your own rules.

5. Go public

Once you've grounded yourself in knowledge, independent thinking, community support and creative expression, it's time to take your show on the road. Whether you bring your special gifts to an event sponsored by another group or put on your own event, going public is a necessity. How else to bring about change? Besides, it's really fun to get out there and take your place in the world. And with your community at your side or backing you up, there's no need to feel nervous. After all, you're doing it for the greater good.

6. Nourish yourself

Only YOU know what you need to "keep on keepin' on." Whether it be listening to or making music, going out to dance, hanging out with friends, making art, writing in your journal, meditating or engaging in a spiritual practice of some kind, being in nature, running or biking. Whatever it is, DO IT REGULARLY! If you want to stay active in the struggle for peace and justice, you must replenish your stores of energy.