It is interesting to talk to individuals that think things are ok. At times, the premise of every remark is that nothing can be different or better than it is right now. Others believe that nothing can change; the obstacles and barriers will ensure that everything remains as it is right now. Whatever the premise is, those that are satisfied with the present or do not think anything can or should change treat the future with an ambivalence that feels like cynicism.
I frankly do not get it. The idea that someone would believe that nothing can be different (better) is foreign to my thinking. It is as if they are saying that “Oh! We’re all puffs of air. Oh! We’re all shadows in a campfire. Oh! We’re just spit in the wind. We make our pile, and then we leave it.” (Psalm 39.6)
Life keeps reminding me that there are cycles of rebirth for every creature. We can reach for more than what we have. We have the ability and freedom within us to act for good. We can make compassion real.
As I listened to the cynics, I realized that my best response was living the actions. I did not need to preach, my choices would do that for me. I did not need to condemn, others will take on that responsibility within their own lives. For the most part, I did not even need to confront. My job was living the choices, taking actions that demonstrate my greatest aspirations.
It is a liberating realization. With a sense of empowerment that I did not anticipate, I could leave my mobiles and focus on listening. I could be fully present; looking for the best in others, understanding the details and nuances.
I have started too many conversations with a belief that there was nothing to learn or understand. I have been reminded that the opposite is actually the truth I easily forget. Every moment is an opportunity to learn. Each conversation is a dialogue waiting to happen. Our interactions are windows to something bigger, greater.
