PEOPLE and their choices drive the world each day. Strangely, we interact with one another much like molecules in a cup of water; we collide, adhere, and constantly form new bonds. However, the nature of our interactions changes dramatically when the world itself changes. For instance, when you freeze a cup of water, the molecules within it almost stop moving entirely and rarely collide. When you boil the same cup of water, the molecules speed up and collide so frequently that water escapes the cup as vapour. Human behaviour, especially how we interact with one another, is a heavily examined and debated topic. Yet, this simple comparison to a cup of water offers insight into why we act the way we do. The truth is, humans interact differently when the world around them changes.

As young people, we are given the responsibility of caring for the world as soon as we are old enough to understand some parts of it. If we fail in this responsibility, we create a poor home for future generations. But what does it truly mean to create a better world? What does it mean to shape the planet for future generations? For a young student who has barely completed their education; a child still in school, or a young adult who has yet to understand the meaning of their own life, the idea of creating a better world can seem incomprehensible and unrealistic.

After all, we are merely little molecules within a cup; we cannot control the temperature that mobilises these particles. All we can do is respond to the changes and try not to push each other out of the cup.

Nevertheless, we do hold some power. The age-old argument of whether Man shapes society or society shapes Man has become archaic. While it is true that the world influences how we behave, it is equally true that we can collectively change the way the world exists. Perhaps, the easiest way to start changing the world is to recognise the means by which we can influence it.

Changing the world can be as simple as saying “no”, as Rosa Parks did. It can be as simple as demonstrating peace, as Mahatma Gandhi did. It can be as simple as embracing individuality in a crowd that promotes conformity, as Winnie Harlow exemplifies.

The idea of changing the world becomes unrealistic only when we forget that we are little molecules in a cup. Being small and easily influenced is an advantage, because we are not only influenced, but also capable of influencing others. Though we cannot transform the world or create a new society in a single day, we can make choices that inspire others to work towards a common goal.

History has shown that when a generation is given motivation and direction, it can spark a revolution. To find motivation and direction, we must embrace causes that extend beyond the boundaries of our own lives. We must view ourselves as part of a larger population that shares our struggles rather than as individuals isolated in our victories and defeats. Start by recognising what you want to change in the world, and believe that you can change it. Believe in your ability to shape the world; believe in your capacity for change.