NIGHT OWL
I’m writing this far away from home, sitting in Oxford, still carrying the awe of last night’s Advent carols at University College. It started in complete darkness—a deliberate reminder of the darkness in the world and the need for Christ. The first notes of “The Advent Prose,” drawn from traditional Advent liturgical texts and paired with Judith Weir’s hauntingly beautiful music, filled the space. Then came the familiar and stirring “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and “This is the Truth” by R. Vaughan Williams. It was solemn, uplifting, and deeply moving.
Being at Univ, as University College is affectionately called, added another layer of reflection. This college has seen centuries of history, starting small with just four theology Fellows. Over time, through benefactors and determination, it grew into one of Oxford’s leading institutions. From its medieval roots to admitting women in 1979, Univ’s journey is one of perseverance and progress. It’s a powerful reminder of how legacies are built over time—a theme that resonates with what we can leave for future generations.
A world worth inheriting
What does it mean to leave a better future? For me, it’s imagining a world where clean air is a given, where the oceans aren’t choked with plastic, and where forests thrive alongside human progress. It’s about creating societies where education, healthcare, and opportunity are not privileges but rights—regardless of where you’re born. It’s a future where diversity is celebrated, justice is upheld, and collective well-being takes precedence over personal gain.
This might sound idealistic, but it’s not out of reach. The choices we make today—big and small—can shape the trajectory of the world we’ll pass on.
Investing in sustainability
If there’s one thing we owe the next generation, it’s a livable planet. Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s here. Rising temperatures, extreme weather, and the loss of biodiversity are realities impacting millions. Tackling this starts with prioritizing sustainability.
That might mean embracing renewable energy, reducing waste, or choosing businesses that prioritize green practices. It means rethinking the way we consume and advocate for policies that put the planet first. Even small actions—walking instead of driving, cutting down on single-use plastics—add up when multiplied across communities. Together, these choices can secure a future where nature and humanity coexist in harmony.
Nurturing education
Education is one of the most powerful tools we can offer the next generation. But it’s not just about traditional learning; it’s about equipping young people with critical thinking skills, digital literacy, and an understanding of how interconnected the world is.
Innovation, too, has a central role. Technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy systems, and biotechnology hold incredible promise. But they must be guided by ethics and inclusivity. When innovation serves the greater good and not just a privileged few, it can truly transform societies.
Championing equity and justice
A better future is one where everyone has the chance to thrive. That means addressing inequalities rooted in gender, race, and socioeconomic status. It means amplifying voices that have long been ignored and crafting policies that reflect the needs of all communities—not just the elite.
Equity and justice aren’t just moral imperatives; they’re the bedrock of stable, peaceful societies. By fostering empathy, understanding, and collaboration, we can build communities that stand strong in the face of division and conflict.
The role of hope and action
Hope is powerful. But hope without action is just wishful thinking. The greatest gift we can give future generations is not just the vision of a better world but the tangible steps to achieve it. This means taking responsibility—for our consumption, our votes, our voices. It means holding leaders accountable and inspiring others to join the cause.
The path forward isn’t without challenges. But it’s a journey worth taking. By planting the seeds of change today, we can nurture a future where the next generation looks back with gratitude, knowing we chose to act when it mattered most.
A gift beyond measure
As we exchange gifts this season, let’s remember the one that can’t be wrapped or placed under a tree. It’s a legacy of hope, progress, and possibility. A better future isn’t just a gift for the next generation; it’s a responsibility we all share.
So let’s give generously—not just to those we know, but to those who will inherit this world. Together, we can create a future that is brighter, kinder, and more just. And that, above all, is the ultimate gift.
