Thoughts & Ramblings

I’ve had many interesting conversations with numerous viewpoints with people from all walks of life this past year. Remarkably, or perhaps not, the most thought-provoking discussions came from those whom society would rather ignore than respect. It’s no coincidence those who have been touched by tremendous hardships have a much deeper understanding, a more compassionate stance, and an incredible unwavering conviction that adversities can be overcome.

One particular conversation is forever engraved upon my mind. This man was counseling me during an especially terrifying series of incidences that were life-threatening to my children and me. I felt like Dorothy as she counseled with the great and powerful Wizard of Oz expecting intelligent, sensible advice. But what I received was, “Well, if your ex succeeds in murdering you and your family, then your mission here in life has been completed and you shall receive your just reward.”

As a profound thinker, an admirer of opinions different than my own, and open to suggestions I may not have considered, I found this peculiar tête-à-tête disturbing. Who in their right mind tells a woman who has been victimized by domestic abuse for years that the very least I should worry about is if I succumb to murder at the hands of someone I fear? In the eight months that have followed that conversation, I’ve attempted to elucidate his meaning to no avail. I can perceive nothing justifiable in rationalization of that ill-given advice. By the way, this man has a degree in chemistry and holds a very important position in nuclear power.

Another jarring perspective I’ve encountered this year was from another male, degreed in management, money obsessive, and always has to be right. I eventually found out he is a federally convicted felon, though the details provided were elusive and I no longer associate with him so I could care less. This person said if my writing became lucrative profession he wanted me to buy him a $500,000 Aston Martin James Bond 007 car. At first, I thought he was joking, because he had a smile on his face whenever he would mention it. After a few weeks, it became obvious that he was the most narcissistic creature I have ever had the displeasure of encountering in my entire life. When I do make money from my craft of writing, I can assure everyone that I will not purchase a $500,000 automobile; for me or for anyone else.

I explained, as much as I could to this fanatical individual, that I would ensure that the money I spend on others would go to a much more thoughtful and useful purpose. I could provide mobile homes to at least twenty families which would get them out of their tents in the parks. I could replace leaky roofs; broken hvac systems; water heaters; distribute food, clothing, and other necessities; pay utility bills; or help others in variety of basic needs. Because I have been given much, I, too, must give; but if I were presented with the opportunity to have more, then I would contribute even more generously.

A third rumination comes from another male, degreed in business, but well-versed in compassion. He has spent his life taking care of others, perfecting his talents, and giving an honest day’s work. Through no fault of his own, he was laid off due to the economic downturn. Anxiously struggling to find employment, he nonetheless provides charitable contributions in whatever manner he is able to do so. Probably the most intelligent man I’ve ever met, he ponders at his plight and is constantly attempting to alter his current situation. This individual personifies the average American who wants so desperately to have gainful employment in order to feel useful and productive.

I’m nothing if not amazed that the people who hold themselves in such high regard are actually less worthy than those they censure. How ludicrously backwards life can be at times; those experiencing economic hardships are the ones who would give until people stopped hurting. Yet, the ones who are endowed with the means are usually the ones who refuse to mete out compassion, service or anything else.

Lest anyone think that I’m a bleeding heart liberal, I can assure you that I am firmly resolute in owning up to one’s obligations and responsibilities. That being said, the definition of a bleeding heart liberal is: progressive; open-minded; tolerant; favors maximizing individual freedoms; especially as guaranteed by law and secured by government; favors representational forms of governments, not monarchies or aristocracies; and cares excessively about those who are underprivileged or exploited. (Charlotte A. Weybright, 2007.) So, I guess I really am (smile).

That being said, talents and adversities are unfairly distributed amongst mankind. Mother Theresa was one of the most holy people to have roamed the earth; while poor in material wealth, she was a spiritual giant. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. His philosophy inspired many including Martin Luther King, Jr. who in 1955 said, "Christ gave us the goals and Mahatma Gandhi the tactics."

“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40 (KJ V)

Donate your time and anything else you can spare. He who dies with the most stuff does not win. It’s he who has done for the most for those who cannot who does.