Ideal Ideals

Just reflecting on my Ghandi reading and from the 1 book I read he seemed like a pritty idealistic guy who was prepared to live up to what he believed. But how much good does being idealistic do?

There was one example about how he went into a Village that was suffering from many diseases that could have been reduced by a healthier more sanitary life. He went in there and helped and showed the people how the could live better. But as soon as he left they went straight back to their old ways!

In reflection I think that it's good to have some ideals and at least try to live up to them- but trying to make other people live in with your ideals is stupid and unlikely to work in the long run- they have to come to their own conclusions their own way and from their own experiences. But can challenge peoples thinking and open possibilities. Just like you can't force Christ upon others.