Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Winter 2021 Newsletter

Posted on December 12th, 2021.

Dear Roots & Shoots members,

As another year draws to a close, there is no doubt that we are still living through challenging times and trying to adapt to circumstances which are being described as the ‘new normal’. What does that actually mean?

This month I suffered a major setback at work. Suffice it to say, if I were to find a parallel, it would be to have reached the top of the mountain after a strenuous climb, only to find myself right back at the bottom again, looking up.

Which raised the question; How do we maintain resilience in the face of major setbacks?

My young son recently reminded me of the famous Nelson Mandela quote; “Do not judge me by my success. Judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again”

Maintaining valued connections, keeping a healthy perspective including gratitude, embracing change and building a sense of purpose were the four pillars that I found to be the most helpful.

In my opinion, Roots & Shoots is a way of living that embraces these pillars above all else. Through those values it has become not just a programme but a way of life. I see it continuing for many more years to come – building a better future for the next generations by ensuring their roles as responsible Global citizens.

If I ever feel like burying my head under my duvet instead of facing the world, all I need to do is just tap into the amazing stories of our young members from across the Globe, highlighted in our 30th Anniversary Global Awards.

Read on for just a few of them.

Happy New Year and warm wishes for 2022.

Tara