One of the things that has to be faced is the process of waiting

Host: The soft hum of the evening settled into the room, providing space for deep reflection. Jack sat at the table, his fingers lightly resting on his cup, considering Ella Baker’s words. Jeeny stood near the window, her gaze directed outward, contemplating the deeper meaning of the statement.

Jeeny: “I’ve been thinking about what Ella Baker said: ‘One of the things that has to be faced is the process of waiting to change the system, how much we have got to do to find out who we are, where we have come from and where we are going.’ It’s such an important reminder about the journey of self-discovery and social change, isn’t it? The idea that we can’t just jump into changing systems without first understanding who we are as individuals and as a community, and what history has shaped us.”

Jack: “Yes, exactly. Baker is emphasizing that change—whether in society or within ourselves—requires deep reflection. We can’t rush into transforming systems without understanding the roots of where we’ve come from, the challenges we face now, and the future we want to create. The process of waiting to change the system is really about preparation—we have to take the time to learn and understand ourselves and our histories first. Only then can we move forward with purpose.”

Jeeny: “Right. And I think Baker is pointing out how difficult and uncomfortable that waiting process can be. It’s easy to get frustrated, especially when you want change to happen quickly. But the truth is, self-awareness and understanding the context of our situation are key to any meaningful shift. We can’t change the system without first knowing what needs to be changed and why. The waiting process is part of the work—it’s part of preparing for real transformation.”

Host: The stillness in the room grew as they both reflected on the complexity of change. Jack’s fingers rested on the table, while Jeeny’s expression softened, considering the necessary process of reflection and understanding before action can be taken.

Jack: “It makes me think about how often we focus on the end result—we want change, and we want it now. But Baker is showing us that the real work is in the process—in understanding where we’ve come from, what shaped us, and how we fit into the larger picture. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s not just about acting quickly; it’s about taking the time to ensure we’re moving forward with a solid understanding of our identity and purpose.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. And it’s also a reminder that change isn’t just about external systems; it’s about internal growth too. To change the system, we first have to change the way we see ourselves, our history, and our future. Baker is showing us that understanding who we are and where we’re going is just as important as the work of social change itself.”

Jack: “And I think that’s why the process of waiting can feel so uncomfortable. It’s not just about waiting for external change—it’s about grappling with who we are and what we need to transform within before we can see meaningful change outside. This requires patience, but also a commitment to the work of self-discovery and understanding.”

Jeeny: “Yes, and it’s about embracing the process. Baker is telling us that change requires patience and awareness. We can’t rush through the tough part, the part where we question and reflect. The transformation of systems begins with the transformation of ourselves—and that can only happen when we understand the history and context that brought us here.”

Host: The quiet in the room deepened as they reflected on the deeper meaning of Baker’s words. Ella Baker had shown them that the process of change, both personal and societal, is about understanding the roots of our identity, our history, and where we are heading. Jack leaned back slightly in his chair, while Jeeny’s gaze turned from the window back to him, both of them understanding the profound work that needs to be done before meaningful change can take place.

Jack: “So, Baker is really showing us that change doesn’t come just from quick action—it comes from understanding. Before we can change anything, we need to take the time to know who we are, where we’ve come from, and what direction we want to head in. The process of waiting is really about preparing ourselves for real transformation.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. Baker is reminding us that the waiting isn’t a passive thing—it’s active work. It’s about learning, reflecting, and developing the right mindset for true change. The system won’t change until we do, and that starts with understanding the history and the self.”

Host: The evening had fully settled in, the quiet understanding between them a reminder that meaningful change is a process that begins with deep reflection and understanding. Ella Baker had shown them that change is not just about external action—it’s about preparing ourselves through self-awareness and understanding before we can truly transform the systems around us. The world outside had darkened, but inside, there was light—a recognition that transformation starts from within, and the journey of waiting is just as essential as the change itself.