It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of problems we are currently facing in our lives, our country, and the world. I would like to take a focused look at the solutions happening in our own communities. The future is full of hope and inspiring ideas. If we take the time to focus on what is right in front of us, then we can build something great and lead by example. We have flaunted the histories of our communities with museums and protected historic sites, but we forget that we are making history every day. In the words of Albert Einstein,
“The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.”.
What will they say about us as a society 100 years from now? How can we give them something to be proud of? Something to protect and build on? We are laying out our legacy day by day and with that, might I remind you that voting does not only happen on election days. It happens at the grocery store. It happens online. It happens when you listen to a podcast. It happens every time you make a choice. The things you choose to spend your time and money on are all votes for the future that you want to live in. What are you investing in? Do you really know what you’re voting for? Where is your time and money being invested? Family? Food? Entertainment? Education? What are those investments giving you in return? Hope? Chronic Disease? Energy? A couple hours of sanity? The point is, if you are putting your time and money in places that don’t serve you well, then your future is going to get a sorry return on the investment. On a personal scale this can look like poor health or poor relationships. On a larger scale this looks like America today. The systems we have in place are ones that were built and supported by society’s everyday choices. We can’t point the finger at one person. This is the result of a majority vote. Including that “silent majority”.
“We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.”
Elie Wiesel
Speak up. Get involved. The political and economic systems we have in place are a result of what the majority was willing (or not willing) to invest their time and money in, informed or otherwise. We, as a society, have valued convenience above all else. Sacrificing our health, our liberty, and our need for justice. But temperatures are rising, and change is constant. I am inspired and energized by the tireless efforts I see to build a better world to live in. What we see now is just the buildup of past decisions. It can be scary and emotionally exhausting to face the mess of problems around every corner. Choose one goal to focus on. Examine yourself and find what is important to you. Then make choices that reflect that. Just remember that change happens day by day and your everyday choices can shape the future. Be informed. Be connected. Join the effort. #Decadeofaction
The Arena Perspective: Richmond, VA 