To paraphrase a sage read long ago: People watch the News and see so much negative happening; they naturally think 'such is our condition.' But remember that what doesn't seek to publicize itself are the billions of acts of kindness and decency performed every day all over the planet. This is the vastly powerful fabric of human life.
Sometimes I think: Might there not be a kind of 'collective unconscious?' Made and shaped everyday by each of our preoccupations; moods, and whatever spirit we might put into it? Might not a preoccupation with the fearful things and possibilities sour that group unconscious; helping to fuel a frightened humanity?
Sometimes I wonder: Might there not be some 'Platonic Ideal' realm? Where there resides an Ideal of Humanity as One Loving, Creative Being. And the liberal tendency all through history an effort to realize that Ideal?
Maybe. Maybe not.
Still, today, on this earth, there were countless acts where people put aside themselves for a time.
Where a beggar or street performer was given some money, some encouragement, an ear, a smile. A four year old had 'Why?' after 'Why?' after 'Why?' met with patience, consideration, and an effort to give the truest answer. A special meal, with extra effort, was made for the delight of the company. A distressed friend, stranger, was listened to with empathy, even though it was an oft-repeated complaint of theirs.
Someone worked late to help someone resolve a problem; a joke brightened the day for a bored cashier. A mood of annoyance put aside at some petty slight. Apologized for their inattention to someone. Refrained from an unkind or cutting remark even though ready to explode. Stopped their rush to give someone good directions.
Got a gift for someone paid for with too much money or too much time, just for the sake of their delight. Turned off the tv; turned from the cellphone, to pay attention to a person who required it. Practiced to the point of pain so that they could give the best performance possible for an audience. Shared something of insight or kept silent on a criticism….
There's much more than my poor mind can assemble. What else might there be of these daily, quiet acts of a true humanity?
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