The best way to do something is to do it. Faith without works is dead. However, when you feel that you’ve done all you can but you still can’t “make it” then it’s time to investigate the genesis of your discontent. I like to use marriages of opposites as a point of reference. For example, the glass half empty person married to the eternal optimist. In both case they are not right, or wrong, but what can be agreed upon is that there is a glass. The contents of it is a matter of perception, and therein lies your discontent, or your joy. If you focus on the glass, you will see that the glass itself is malleable. It can be utilized and symbolizes opportunity overall.
There is a school of thought where people wait for their cup to be filled and others learn to fill it themselves. Which is better? I personally am self-motivated and activated. While it is always nice to have the support I desire, I am not entitled to a sustained stream of anything. If I were, that means that someone is giving for me and taking from them, and that could leave them in lack. The goal is always to be what I desire and to share it. That is the most abundant state and one where most giving can be genuine. I feel alot of people would categorize themselves as genuine, altruistic, and even selfless. Yet, the real challenge comes when your help is no longer needed or someone you helped surpasses you. Will you be able to handle that? Most of us can’t. We want you to do good, but not necessarily that good.
You Don’t Really Grapple With Truth, You Grapple With Interpretations
This is where the idea of living out a truth as opposed to talking about a truth has a different feel. It will cause you to think logically upon the things you claim to value and to become honest about your desire to share them. For example, when we say “our shared history” what does it mean? If everything thing is shared and we came up together, can anything be appropriated? Of course. The truth discontent is the lack of citing the sources, or citing the creator. It doesn’t mean that it won’t be taken, it absolutely will be, and monetized as well, but at least we will know where it came from.
Does this communal sharing work both ways? Of course. You wear my dreadlocks and I dance the Irish jig. However, what is lost, is individuality. A menudo and melting pot isn’t necessarily diverse on the surface. It appears more like a goulash and less like a buffet. Personally, I like everything having a cultural diversity. I think now people comfortable embracing their heritage and they want to figure out a way to keep it a normal part of their existence without it being a centerstage issue. They don’t want to be set apart for it, judged for it, discriminated against because of it–but it also doesn’t need to suck the air out of the room. How is that done? I have my ideas but I will wait and see. I guess this can be solved within in a pluralistic society, yet technically we already live in one. We live this everyday, and it’s what makes this country great, but there is a disconnect. Many people feel trapped in a state of discontent. I think what we desire is to feel a sense of connectedness, and that comes from a connection that goes beyond the law books and the dogma and into the heart. That can only happen without interference.
One of the best things to come from this election was the honesty of the people. I actually think that we grow more and more honest and resolute each day. Instead of planning what to say next in the debate of life, it may be even better to listen. Listen to what is being said and valued. The ideals that are being actualized in this moment are centered around strength, peace and empowerment. Empowerment now, not when someone provides the parameters.
It is also important to note that some people simply do not believe in that line of thought. That has to be acknowledged as well. Again, there are two different schools of thought. Neither is right or wrong, but for increased success and greater buy in, it’s best to know true intentions and feelings. Once all of the cards are on the table, can their be room for certain complaints? No. If you like or dislike something, you will take the consequences because it was your decision. Disenfranchisement is actually born from the hopelessness of true change occurring. It is the very definition of apathy and going along to get along. Sadly, far too many people are ok with that. Can they be trusted to serve my interests if they don’t trust me to understand? Not at all. At every level there not only should be transparency, but an understanding.
Now is the time to live it and be it. And before you take hold of this message, make sure it rings true. In this day and age, everyone subscribes to a different truth. It’s best not to criss cross the lines in the sand, unless you are truly in the middle. We need people who will fight with intelligence and integrity, not for solely for their own futures, but for quantifiable differentials that will produce substantial long standing outcomes.
The love will come from us coming up from the trenches together. We are all in this together. I know what it is like to have to make some intense grocery, travel and shopping decisions. But I also know, like many of you, that I have a good life because of my values, who I am, and how I live my life. This is the time to learn new skills in finance, business, and even the circular economy. This is a time to get excited about what you can do to make your dreams come true. If you fall short, so what? There is a deep satisfaction that comes from trying in the first place. Good luck.
