Power is not…

[Intersections – V]

Power is not harnessed when we buy, though the advertisement firm might try to convince you of that.

Power is not exercising your rights. Freedoms, while empowering, are only part of what power means.

Power is not bullying. It’s not violent. It’s not intimidating or controlling. All of those are aspects of power, and all of those are employed by people (and institutions) that insist on being in control, but they are’t the heart of power.

Power is not monopoly. I’ll admit, it often looks like it.

True power is the capacity to create . . . something better, beautify, nourishing, and good.

True power is autonomy . . . that willingly gives up unlimited freedom for the sake of others.

True power is not power-over, but power-under . . . empowering the whole from the bottom.

Power is at the intersection of creativity, justice, and the common good.

You, dear friend, are empowered!