The social climate in the US is scorching. People are rightfully passionate, and even angry. Some of us have taken to the streets, while others are putting their minds together on social media and in meeting rooms to strategize the next steps in the struggle. The important discussion to have with ourselves and with each other is, if what is happening in our society is what I do not want, then what do I want to see in its place?
We get so caught up reacting to what it is that we do not want, that we give little or no energy to thinking about what it is we really want to experience. If we do not do the work of planning to successfully change injustice with what we need, then we should expect very little to no change. Besides, investing precious energy and time in solutions is much more productive than complaining or becoming a victim.
Can we allow ourselves to see the reality we want and free ourselves from the paralyzing images played out on the television? Some people find it difficult to entertain the thoughts and mental images they truly desire; they even resist. We are so comfortable saying what we do not want or do not like, but sometimes articulating what we want or receiving what we want can be challenging. When we see situations that we do not like or experience feelings that make us feel uncomfortable, our first reaction has to be to immediately hold the image in our minds of what it is we want.
The vision I have is:
- a world where ALL people are treated with respect and dignity
- a world where EVERY child grows up feeling loved and protected
- a world where women and elders are valued
- a world where the greatest conflict we witness are people’s personal struggles to free themselves of mental and spiritual bondage
I don’t want to use the word daydream, but I encourage the imagining and the visioning that allows our minds to create what may not be in front of us. We cannot afford to remain locked in the nightmare created by megalomaniacs who program us through broadcast television and cable/satellite shows. The world’s greatest natural resource is our minds. No one person can lead us to the promised land. We individually and collectively have to have a vision that begins when we hold the thought and image in our minds.
I believe in you. I believe in the infinite potential of the majority of people in this world who desire peace.