TED, a documentary

We watched a wonderful documentary from Netflix the other night entitled "The Future We will Create: Inside the World of TED", which stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design. Filmed in 2006, it showed how 1000 people from all over the world attended a 3-5 day meeting which is held annually, some of whom had been invited to deliver an 18 minute presentation about what they had done, or learned, or caused to happen, or become interested in during the previous year. Some of the invitees had been there as many as 15 times but most were there for the first time. The focus is on how the world is growing smaller and we are all one family.

There was a fascinating visual presentation of data on poverty, wealth and family size that showed how the countries of the world are becoming more similar. A presenter from the Bronx talked about how her community got together and created a magnificent park in what had been a slum area. A poet delivered an amazing poem about changing the world for the better. A woman spoke of a new, sustainable smokeless fuel made from natural products that can prevent the death of children around the world who would otherwise die from inhaling the smoke of indoor cooking fires. An 11-yr. old Chinese girl played her violin exquisitely, moving many of the audience to tears. A man told of housing that is made from local materials and designed for temporary use by people around the world who have suffered displacement because of natural or man-made disasters. New technologies were presented, many of which were very new in 2006 but are in use now in 2008.

Most impressive to me was the imagination, enthusiasm and resourcefulness of these very special people who were gathered together in one place to share their passion for changing our world. Not only did they "think outside of the box", they created without a box at all. They not only shared their own ingenuity, they also learned of others with whom they could join forces, who were on the same track and had the same desire to improve every level of our lives. I was thrilled at the concept, and inspired to get involved somehow in projects where I can participate in this excitement. Perhaps locally Habitat for Humanity is a possibility.

Another way to help improve others’ lives around the world is through a group called “Kiva”, in which son Marty has been involved for several years. A small donation helps an individual organize a business that can help them sell a product or service that will provide them with an income, as well as provide needed assistance and inspiration to their community. Go here for more information about Kiva.