In 'The Impossible Will Take a Little While', Paul Rogat Loeb weaves together inspiring stories of grassroots activism and social change, illuminating the power of individual efforts in the face of daunting challenges. Each narrative serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the belief that seemingly impossible goals can be achieved with determination and collaboration. Loeb challenges readers to reframe their understanding of hope and action, emphasizing that lasting change often requires patience and persistence. Through diverse voices and experiences, the book invites us to reflect on our roles in the larger narrative of societal transformation. Are you ready to discover how the improbable becomes possible?
By Paul Rogat Loeb
Published: 2014
""The impossible is what we do every day; it’s the challenge that brings our greatest potential to life.""
More relevant than ever, this seminal collection of essays encourages us to believe in the power of ordinary citizens to change the world In today's turbulent world it's hard not to feel like we're going backwards; after decades of striving, justice and equality still seem like far off goals. What keeps us going when times get tough? How have the leaders and unsung heroes of world-changing political movements persevered in the face of cynicism, fear, and seemingly overwhelming odds? In The Impossible Will Take a Little While, they answer these questions in their own words, creating a conversation among some of the most visionary and eloquent voices of our times. Today, more than ever, we need their words and their wisdom. In this revised edition, Paul Rogat Loeb has comprehensively updated this classic work on what it's like to go up against Goliath--whether South African apartheid, Mississippi segregation, Middle East dictatorships, or the corporations driving global climate change. Without sugarcoating the obstacles, these stories inspire hope to keep moving forward. Think of this book as a conversation among some of the most visionary and eloquent voices of our times--or any time: Contributors include Maya Angelou, Diane Ackerman, Marian Wright Edelman, Wael Ghonim, Václav Havel, Paul Hawken, Seamus Heaney, Jonathan Kozol, Tony Kushner, Audre Lorde, Nelson Mandela, Bill McKibben, Bill Moyers, Pablo Neruda, Mary Pipher, Arundhati Roy, Dan Savage, Desmond Tutu, Alice Walker, Cornel West, Terry Tempest Williams, and Howard Zinn.
Paul Rogat Loeb is a renowned American author and activist, best known for his influential works that explore themes of civic engagement, social change, and the importance of individual action. His notable books include "Soul of a Citizen: Living with Conviction in Challenging Times," which emphasizes the value of grassroots activism, and "The Impossible Will Take a Little While: A Citizen's Guide to Hope in a Time of Fear," an anthology that highlights stories of resilience and commitment in the face of adversity. Loeb's writing style is characterized by its passionate advocacy for civic responsibility and its ability to inspire readers to take meaningful action in their communities. Through his blending of personal narrative and social commentary, he invites readers to reflect on their own roles in shaping a better world.
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"Assata" is the powerful autobiography of Assata Shakur, a former Black Panther and a fugitive living in Cuba. Through her compelling narrative, she details her experiences with systemic racism, political oppression, and the fight for Black liberation in America. Shakur offers a raw, unflinching look at her life, from her childhood to her controversial arrest and eventual escape from the injustices of the American legal system. Her story challenges readers to confront difficult truths about society and question the narratives surrounding activists. With its potent blend of personal reflection and political discourse, "Assata" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of resistance and resilience.
'When They Call You a Terrorist' is a powerful memoir that dives into the life of Patrisse Khan-Cullors, co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement. Through her personal and poignant narrative, she confronts the systemic racism and police brutality that shaped her existence. The book explores themes of identity, activism, and the complexities of being labeled as a terrorist by society. Khan-Cullors shares her journey from childhood to becoming a pivotal figure in the fight for justice, challenging readers to reconsider societal labels. This evocative story compellingly invites us to examine the intersections of race, resistance, and resilience in America.
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“"The impossible is what we do every day; it’s the challenge that brings our greatest potential to life."”
The Impossible Will Take a Little While
By Paul Rogat Loeb
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