i's a-muggin', we's a-muggin'

Very much a-muggin'. With some more clarity on what lies before us, our humble network has decided to go for a fairly profound revamp and is now looking to contribute to something that I would call a youth movement - but right now it's couched in the rather PC garb of a youth forum... All issues (from sexual and reproductive health, through livelihoods to drugs and violence) now become means of connecting with the youth to enable them to make informed decisions to secure their own well-being and to create a series of forums at various levels from the block to the state. These forums are means too, as they will enable the youth to influence the government and society at large through advocacy and engaging with the media. Rather grand really - but also really, really cool :) We also seem to have most of the participants on just about the same page - no objectors... and a committed chair. Pukka strategies remain to be consolidated but are definately within grasp. Unity in diversity could be our little mantra as we abandon the 'one-issue-based-campaign-a-year' approach and launch into an effort at systemic transformation.

Weasling a bit of outcome mapping (only at the intentional design phase so far - and even then rather partially) into the process has proved both positive and not without challenges. Our next workshop will aim to consolidate strategies so this will be the time to finish off the strategies in an OM-ish sort of way. Yet another workshop will be required for PME and learning... So, no rest for the wicked.

But of course, without the requisite moral dilemma, such a peachy picture would not be complete (or at least not a reasonable reflection of reality). So tonight I battle with the question of whether to share knowledge freely (something I've always considered my responsibility as a human being) or permit interpersonal feuds (not involving me) to get in the way. The problem is presented partly as one of loyalty but with a bit of 'why help someone who has been rude and uncooperative in the past?' thrown in. 'Turn the other cheek' or an 'eye for an eye'? Teachings on this matter throw new against old. Some modern sources might point to the fact that adhering to only one of these strategies may not be the best option, but rather that a careful balance between the two is required to send the right signals to the right places at the right time. As I have trouble seeing how my knowledge can be put to a use any worse than what would be done without it, a powerful urge drives me to share it. Apologies to anyone I disappoint or any loyalties I disturb. It is not my intention to do wrong or harm but to spread a message of collaboration and openness, to nurture damaged relationships and create healthy synergetic linkages between those who could be working towards the same goals.

Thank you and good night!