In one way or another, the whole human family is affected by the global economic crisis, conflicts in the Middle East and Asia, climate change, and natural and man-made disasters in Africa and elsewhere.

The temptation in times of crisis is to look for some person or group to blame. Yet we know that this path leads to conflict and is futile. Can we take a different path which can more surely advance us to better ways of living?

The key may be to ask deep enough questions about how we have arrived where we are, and to have the courage to change accordingly. Renewed awareness of the cost of greed and corruption may inspire new honesty and unselfishness in each of us. The failure of small and short-term thinking can strengthen our resolve to see the larger picture and take the longer view.

The particular challenges of the 21st century will demand great spiritual qualities of faith, unselfish sacrifice, honesty, forgiveness and endurance, rooted in a love for one’s fellow human beings. For over 60 years, Initiatives of Change has been working for change from this deeper, spiritual level.

Human suffering knows no borders. Likewise the spectrum of possibilities for vice or virtue is part of the universal human condition. People divided by politics, race and religion, age and gender, rich and poor, can all find common cause in committing to a purpose greater than themselves. As we turn the searchlight inwards, may we be guided by the timeless wisdom which has always been available to those willing to listen and act.

Rajmohan Gandhi

President, Initiatives of Change International

Professor Rajmohan Gandhi has been president of IofC International since 1 January 2009. A journalist, academic and social reformer, Gandhi received international acclaim for his new biography of his grandfather, Mohandas K Gandhi, launched in 2007-2008.