Issues That Matter

A lot of topics have passed through this blog over the last 10 years. A whole decade of bits and pieces that deserved discussion and perspective. The wonder of it all is the same topics pretty much exist today as they did a decade ago. This reality does not support any claim that we are making progress!

However, progress is needed. I have suggested all along that many problems or issues are consistent companions of life as we struggle forth on our journey together. Of course, we each do this, but we are massed as humans, so yes, we are together however fitfully.

From time to time I find it helpful to raise my sights higher, to sense the presence of what really matters. This practice helps me gain perspective and realize that the big issues are comprised of many smaller issues. Those smaller items are very important; we should not lose sight of them. We tend to think mainly on them and fail to get to the big issues that should be our focus.

Here are some examples.

1.       China wants to expand its world influence and power. It doesn’t do well unless there is a threat attached to the engagement. The ‘do this or else’ mentality does not work within the global community. It does work on the school yard. Bullies usually get their way in the short term but they lose the war in the long haul.

2.       If any nation wishes to engage on the global stage they need to step up with the responsibility of helping others. That is why others wish to engage; they need help and reach out for what works. Self-sustainability ought to be the objective. That makes for stability of the community, and reduces institutional charity. China, are you willing to help others become stronger and self-sustainable? Or must you control the markets, the ideology, the military strength? None of those strengthen you or the global community.

3.       Managing pandemics is necessary for the good of the planet. Plain and simple. Cooperation and collaboration are the keystones of good management. Any grandstanding eliminates trust among the whole community. China, you are suspect in both the cause and spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. You have much to prove to the contrary. Denial is not a good strategy. Prove your position.

4.       Climate change is likely true as science has warned. Working to abate its effects is what we are faced with as a global community. This planet is not ours alone. It belongs to 7+ billion people. The people, not their governments. Solving this problem, or at least managing its effects on us all is a task that belongs to us all.

5.       People ‘own’ their national government, not the other way around. Placing trust in citizenry is a must if freedom is to be true for all. Military resolutions happen when governments declare war on each other for power or financial domination over another. That is ideology in control of all human behavior and adopted by a few who control the apparatus of government. That is wrong. That is why we have wars. Work for freedom at home and abroad. This is a gift we can share. It is not ours to control or impose. This is the entry fee for international relationships.

6.       Religious thought and belief are for the individual, not imposed on all. Religion is not a bargaining chip for any law, negotiation, or relationship. It is a private matter best eliminated from all governance activity.

7.       Education is the great emancipator. Provide this to every human being based on their ability and interest. They will soar to become all they can become, and society will reap the benefits accordingly.

8.       Healthcare is a right. Make it accessible for all.

That is the sum and substance of what I think are the issues that matter. At home or abroad, these eight will make for a world at peace with itself. Let us make this happen.

October 7, 2021