After being fortunate enough to hear Ms. Jackley speak to us, I began to consider the purpose of NGOs. New NGOs have been forming rapidly over the past decade. More than likely as a result of the need to engage in issues typically not discussed in depth in the political realm. Instead of talking, NGOs do. They do the things that governments often hesitate to do because of its political repercussions. However is this right? Most NGOs are focused on a tangible goal which benefits people. The role of the government is to help the people. So with that in mind should NGOs diminish overtime as Governments take on the role of helping the people? It's an interesting question, and undoubtedly one that we will find out the answer to soon.
As I have had the opportunity this summer to meet new people from a variety of backgrounds I have recently been reminded of the time I spent with the students who visited from Bejing. Despite political views from the left and right, and the perceptions each carry about an array of nations and those that reside in them, it is important to remember that people are people. A relatively recent experience with some exchange students from China has taught me this. While unfortunately, I was unable to host myself one of my friends, Brennan, was. One Thursday night he texted both me, as well as my friend Yale asking if we were able to hang out with them the following night. After school that Friday we all met up and I was introduced to Leo and Daniel-the two students who were staying with Brennan. This was something I had been looking forward to the entire day. Having a chance to meet and converse with someone from a seemingly "completely different nation" was something...
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