|
than it is probably time to slow down and think for a minute. It would be totally appropriate to be freaking out right now, because we all like a predictable outcome, but the reality is that the present doesn't afford us a predictable outcome. Life doesn't afford us a predictable outcome.
The reality is that what will happen, will happen. Period. The reasons, the players, the timing, are essentially lost to us because alas we are but regular people in this life, like all others throughout history.
Now, I am in no way absolving the responsible, but if it makes you feel better, after watching the direction of the last several days, I am 100% convinced that 90% of our "leaders", on both sides, have absolutely no clue what to do, or how we got here. The other 10% are leading the 90% by the hog ring, but they are being led, nonetheless.
I have gotten MYSELF so worked up that I forgot the lessons of history, and the history of millions that stood in our same conundrum, albeit without the hideous, wondrous aid of instant communication.
Many peoples have broached almost identical periods in human history, and emerge victorious in their ability, conviction, and resolve. As Americans, we have a slightly larger cross to bear, as we have enjoyed decades of prosperity as measured by the rest of the world, developed or not, and as such, have a worldview that has elevated us beyond our ability to perform basic sustenance functions, and focus on loftier goals such as political science, social justice, and technological mastery.
This in itself is an amazing opportunity, but I don't think we can argue it has also left us with basic human deficiencies. The obesity rate is staggering. We have almost lost the ability and knowledge to grow our own food, and the chief method of communication with those "of a feather" so it were, is run by mindless machines humming in our homes and basements, completely subservient to an energy source that if once lost in one fell swoop, we would be unable to reproduce in untold manhours.
I am really not trying to sound preachy, I just think it is important to remember that as much as we think we control our fate, we have so very little control. Shit happens. Really nasty, unfair, heinous shit.
But we do control our reactions.
Take cookies to your neighbor. They are nice. I promise. (well, not if they cook meth in the basement, then stay away)
|