Growing pains hurt! Don't cheapen your life by opting out

When one is accustomed to success looking a particular way, it is intimidating to consider another face to it; it is perhaps unnerving to admit that your norm is not only NOT THE ONLY way to be, but - indeed - not a way of being that regards the inclusivity of the natural world in balance at all. In a world connected through a circulatory system of economics, with many unique and opposing lenses through which life is interpreted, how do we develop an ethical standard for that which sustains us - without judgement or opposition? How do we recapture a reverence for the natural world that would demonstrate a will to honor that world - as opposed to simply commodify it? How do we do this without jumping to defense when our norm is threatened? Let's all be willing to be 'wrong' in order that we may progress into an existence that is more balanced and in-line with the natural world which - in the end - is our foundation and our lifeline. For those who consider environmental threats not imminent, consider this an opportunity to have a better relationship with Earth which, irregardless of threats, is taking responsibility for ourselves - how adult indeed.

I am fascinated by politics and their tendency to find their way into everyday life - structurally. I find so many people unable or unwilling or afraid of talking about anything they might disagree on. THAT'S THE POINT! Agreeing with another can feel great and validating and I have actually had a great many conversations with those I generally "agree with" - - - - that present me with an opportunity for growth..... But for the longest time, it feels that if someone's norm is threatened, they shut down. I see it in the news, I see it everywhere; the inability to hear another point of view.

It is perhaps wrong, but I have come to see this as a weakness. To hear an opposing view, to listen intentionally, to truly care - does not mean you'll come out BEING THE OTHER PERSON! What is the fear? What is the intention behind the defensive shutting down of others?

I am so inspired by the environmental voice that we have in the world right now; it has taken so very long to rev up and it is finally noticeable enough that it is just a bother to others. However, just as any other heated topic, the shut downs are fast and fierce.

Don't be distracted by immature responses to your voice. It is easy to defensively toss words at another; it takes maturity and compassion to stop and listen and consider and self-audit. It is a great hope that we can all take this latter route and find a meeting ground of sorts. It amazes me that such disparate views can be had on the thing that sustains us from the bottom up...……..from reality to the abstractions - the abstractions of our own lives being what many put most stock in.

Do not lose heart; let the chatter stoke the fire of your passion and do not lower your ethic in order to combat another's need for attention.

We are part of our environment and it's time we take responsibility for that; just because it's easier to ignore that doesn't mean we should. Shortcuts are for the weak.