Manifesto: Have a backbone

Practice, not preach. Engage on projects that we practice with our hearts. Do not participate in hypocrisy. Growth is measured on the inside. Value progress but remember success is measured first by how it has evolved us as individuals. Empowerment, not charity. Believe that teaching people how to fish and being present with them is a factor for true change to occur. Existing social norms and habits. Believe in social systems and the power of people coming together. Work supporting these existing structures. Scaffold; lean on experts and partners. Work closely with people who can help our initiatives and grow with them. Narrative, never forget the power of stories. Work with empathy and engage stories. Shed dead leaves; nourishment shouldn’t be wasted. Rejuvenation is essential and seasons are omnipresent, so allow people and creations to evolve, move away and return to mission as needed.