Some Occupy Movements are Actually Effecting Change

I've been quite apprehensive to address this whole Occupy movement, that is, until now.  I'm trying to stay as neutral as possible with this whole thing, because I personally don't understand all of it. 

I gained much respect for some of those in the movement today! I was extremely pleased to read and hear that the Occupy Nova Scotia protesters will be moving for Remembrance Day.  It is respectful and I believe that particular group of protesters is worth listening to.  If they are willing to show respect for our country and veterans by moving, temporarily, then I believe the same respect should be shown them, by simply hearing them out. 

I don't think the same can be said for all the Occupy groups in our country.  I think some of the acts of defiance are very selfish and unnecessary.  I'm not one for the "down with the establishment" attitude.  On the other hand, Occupy Calgary has my support, because they've mainly focused on one goal and that's the homelessness in our area.  Starting as one group with many causes, they shifted to be two groups with one main cause.  The only way to truely enact change is to have a clear message.  People get too confused and don't understand what the point is, when there isn't a clear message or goal.  I haven't been able to say whether or not I support or don't support other Occupy groups, because I don't know what they're protesting.  Each group seems to have 1000 different reasons and no clear consensus on anything.  I personally don't ascribe myself to the whole 99% attitude either.  We all have to work, whether it's for some company or for ourselves.  I choose not to view it in a way where we are working so someone else can get rich.  I think that's a very strange way to interpret our purpose.  We believe we are working to provide for our family and that is all that matters.  I guess for the 99% work for the 1% message, I disagree.  I see it very differently!

Like I said before, Occupy Calgary, however, seems different.  They have one clear message, with a smattering of others.  One of the two Calgary groups has also accepted a deal from the Calgary Homeless Foundation according to the CBC article ~ Occupy Calgary protesters agree to deal.  They had one goal and they achieved something.  The St. Patrick Island, Calgary protesters actually accomplished effective change in the lives of others!

I hope all the other Occupy groups take note of that Calgary group and stand solid for one main goal.  The alternative will result in people not seeing the point and the movement fizzling.  Protesting is pointless if you're only doing it for the mere excuse to protest and although I'm sure that's not what's happening, that's the way a lot of people are perceive it when there's no clear message.  Occupy Calgary had a real purpose and were protesting for a real cause.  Occupy Nova Scotia is showing respect for others and recognizing the service of others as well.  They are another example of the good that can come out of clear, unselfish action!  I hope the other groups notice what is working and adjust themselves accordingly.  If they really want to help people than I'd think they'd shift to what works, because not doing so makes them no different than the "establishment" they say they are against.

I'm all for a good protest, but I also know that protests only work if your message resonates with the general public.  The Occupy Calgary protest resonated, because they received a positive answer.  Occupy Nova Scotia is resonating, because they chose not to alienate those around them and show respect for those who have fought for them to even have the right to protest.