Editor's Note
Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 10:46PM Article originally published in May/June 2010 issue of THRiVE! 
18th Century statesman and philosopher Edmund Burke said, “The only thing necessary for evil to flourish is for good men to do nothing.” Found within this quote is the theme of this issue. Change begins with you and I. Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” There is a tendency within each of us to talk and dream of the change and impact we desire to have on the world - rather than being the answer to the problems confronting us. With change in mind, we present this issue in hopes of inspiring you to move from apathy to action.
On page 22 writer Nancy Carmichael examines the 21st Century epidemic of human trafficking: the underground industry that has enslaved millions worldwide including tens of thousands in the United States. Quoting Carmichael, “There are more human beings living in bondage today than in all 300 years of the African slave trade combined. Unthinkable, but true.” The call to action for you is not to skim the article, look at the pictures and pass it by; rather get involved with STOP! an organization formed to combat this evil with real solutions, read the rest of the article to find out more.
Speaking of change, our cover story was originally with developer and governor hopeful Carl Paladino but was quickly changed after he came under fire for sending foul emails. None the less he is a man wanting to bring change so we published a revised article featuring Paladino and his mission for change. Paladino has demonstrated a genuine remorse for his emails and so we highlighted lessons learned, steps forward, and what we believe his future in politics will entail.
Lastly, Buffalo as a city is experiencing a demographic shift within our own population. Ryan Kozey on page 34 explores the increasing growth of refugees within our city limits and what you can do to serve them. Organizations like the International Institute, Jericho Road Ministries, Peace of the City, Journey’s End, Catholic Charities, and Jewish Family Services are helping but more is needed. According to Kozey’s research, “Throughout the year 2010, it is estimated that roughly 2,000 refugees will find a place to live in the city of Buffalo.”
So get involved, engage our culture and contribute to the story or Buffalo’s redemption. Go ahead and be inspired; read the articles and then pass them on to your friends and reflect together. Then come up with a plan and take action; take that small step of faith forward. You are needed in Buffalo and there is a place for you.
Kyle Patterson
Reader Comments (2)
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