I remember in the 80s how sitcoms portrayed “youth” as having no concern for anything. Well, as a GenX’r I can honestly say that we were very concerned – honestly, about too much of everything.
That hasn’t changed.
I’ve recently discovered a list of problems that I feel need addressing. These problems are universal, global, and a bit controversial. Something must be done.
Pushing naivety aside, I realize that I am not going to make worldwide changes or even a grand splash in the sea of life. But I know that in my circles of connection, I am an agent for change, life, and joy.
Few people who share all of my passions. Many people in my life are strangely myopic when it comes to ‘our’ relationship. They really don’t know me or how I think or move in this world. The few who do are on a very short list. Namely, my bride and best friend of twenty-eight years, and collectively, my five children. Not even my parents truly see me, and that’s OK.
I’m more than can be seen. Even by me.
A delicate balance between living life through the expectation of others in contrast to what is good and profitable is hard to maintain. If we care too much about the opinions and ideas of others we get lost. If we spend our lives trying to make peace and please others, we lose ourselves. People are going to make assumptions and false judgments about us.
When their minds are made up. So be it.
The 80s mentality of “who cares?” needs to live again. We need to make sure that we’re not caring so much about everyone else’s perception that we lose sight of what is good and pleasing. If we do, then our deepest cares, if we can even know them, get lost in the ever-changing sea of despair. That voyage typically ends in tragic isolation, like being marooned after a storm.
I care about a lot of things. Most of all, I care about the joy of other people and their agency. I want them to be unique and make strides in life without bondage. I care about seeing people feel needed, wanted, and important so they can see their value and purpose. I care about ideologies that cause others to suffer and be controlled. I care for the lives of others.
Making sense of this will come in time, as I find the voice that resonates to this end.
So, as any of you reading this would testify, let me hear what message, focus, and meaning has spoken to you from my hands.
We need to find what we care about.
We need to do it together.
Are you listening?