Sometimes Good Intention Has to Be Enough: An AAVS Interview with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau

Image courtesy of
Compassionate Cooks.

One of the greatest challenges that both those newly-awakened to global issues and those who have been working long-term for change can encounter is struggling with letting go of the need and desire to change others -- to make them see through new eyes. It can become really frustrating to know about all the cruelty and suffering and injustice in the world and watch those around us "ignore" it. Working to create a better world for all is one of the most joyful and sometimes disheartening tasks we can undertake. So our attitude and approach are key.

Recently I came across a wonderful interview with chef, author, and activist Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, and the American Anti-Vivisection Society (AAVS), about approaches to activism. While the interview focuses on activism for animals, the sentiments are universal. Here are a few excerpts:

On the importance of intention as an activist:

"Intention is everything. People individually and collectively are smart enough to see right through you if you appear to have a hidden agenda. Having a clear intention about your goal and making that goal about truth rather than outcome will make you a successful, effective advocate 100% of the time.

"... It’s just a matter of changing your mindset and remaining unattached to an outcome. So, for example, if I were to approach people with an agenda to make them change their minds or stop eating animals, not only am I putting an awful lot of pressure on myself, I don’t think it’s very effective. People tend to push back when they feel dictated to, so the game plan often backfires. And if you think about it, it’s a pretty lofty goal to expect someone to change their thinking and behavior just because of one conversation with me!"

On the balance of peace and anger:

"If we reframe anger so we see it in a new context (i.e. anguish, deep grief ), we recognize that there isn’t a contradiction between the peace that comes with living nonviolently and the anger we feel in the face of so much cruelty. Anger can actually be a great motivator. The key is transforming anger into action."

On the importance of non-judgment & compassion toward others who don't share our views:

"We have to stay in touch with our own stories and remember that we, too, were once unaware. In forgetting our own stories and our own process, we lose our humility, and in doing so we risk becoming arrogant and bitter, and that doesn’t do anyone any good. When our hearts are open, we will inspire and attract openness in others."

Read the complete interview.

~ Marsha

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