Jan 20, 2017 was an emotional and nostalgic day for many, not just in the US, but across the world. Barack Obama and the values he stood for, have resonated with millions of people around the globe. His farewell had an even greater impact because of the uncertainty and apprehensions evoked by the incoming administration. 

Throughout this month, social media has been strife with people lamenting his leaving and wishing for four more years. But then, recently, I started wondering about what Obama would have been thinking when starting on his own journey. Maybe he was dissatisfied with the then administration’s actions. Or maybe he was impressed by them. He probably saw the potential that the presidential position held to transform lives. Whatever the reason, at some point, he must have decided “That’s who I want to be. That’s how I am going to effect change.” 

And there must be somebody thinking along the same lines even now, as the rest of us are still consumed by the memories of the past and fear of the future. That person could be somebody you know or maybe even you.  

Be the change you want to see

There has never been a more compelling time to live by Gandhi’s words, to be that instrument of change rather than a bystander. That is how leaders are born.