Human beings constantly face challenges, both personal and social. Some life situations push individuals and society into deep crises, requiring external interventions. However, true change does not occur solely from the outside but first and foremost within each of us. Feeling the call to alleviate suffering in the world is a noble pursuit. But if we focus solely on action or external aid, we risk encountering frustration and despair.
Without a profound transformation in human consciousness, the world’s suffering becomes an endless abyss. Each person already possesses the necessary resources to face life’s most difficult trials. Often, they are simply unaware of it. This conviction is the very foundation of the mission of the Association Article 18. Through our work, we have witnessed numerous transformations, and these testimonies resonate far beyond our own experience.
A striking example is that of Steve Jobs. Known for his immense success, he too faced a deep inner struggle. He realized that joy and the true purpose of life do not lie in professional success or personal achievements. As he approached the end of his life, he came to understand the importance of meaning and the mission of each individual:
“I have come to the pinnacle of success in business. In the eyes of others, my life has been the symbol of success. However, apart from work, I have little joy. Finally, my wealth is simply a fact to which I am accustomed. At this time, lying on the hospital bed and remembering all my life, I realize that all the accolades and riches of which I was once so proud, have become insignificant, with my imminent death. In the dark, when I look at green lights, of the equipment for artificial respiration and feel the buzz of their mechanical sounds, I can feel the breath of my approaching death looming over me. Only now do I understand that once you accumulate enough money for the rest of your life, you have to pursue objectives that are not related to wealth. It should be something more important: For example, stories of love, art, dreams of my childhood. No, stop pursuing wealth, it can only make a person into a twisted being, just like me. God has made us one way, we can feel the love in the heart of each of us, and not illusions built by fame or money, like I made in my life, I cannot take them with me. I can only take with me the memories that were strengthened by love. This is the true wealth that will follow you; will accompany you, he will give strength and light to go ahead. Love can travel thousands of miles and so life has no limits. Move to where you want to go. Strive to reach the goals you want to achieve. Everything is in your heart and in your hands. What is the world’s most expensive bed? The hospital bed. You, if you have money, you can hire someone to drive your car, but you cannot hire someone to take your illness that is killing you. Material things lost can be found. But one thing you can never find once you have lost it, is life. Whatever stage of life where we are right now, at the end we will have to face the day when the curtain falls. Please treasure your family love, love for your spouse, love for your friends… Treat everyone well and stay friendly with your neighbors”.
“Taking care of yourself”—this is precisely what Association Article 18 strives to do for every individual, every community, and every institution, regardless of the context—whether in Switzerland, Europe, the United States, or in war-torn countries.
The Association serves all people facing challenges, crises, or a profound lack of meaning in their lives. Because beyond the execution of projects and the completion of tasks, it is human well-being and the search for meaning that give true value to our actions.