Despite the notion that everything we needed to learn could somehow be done in kindergarten, I’ve learned a few new things in recent weeks…
I’ve learned that words matter…
(… shoot… I did learn that in kindergarten… but… I’ve learned that not everyone did learn it there…)
I’ve learned that people care about our country…
Granted, the masses express their care differently, but difference is not an accurate indicator of sincerity.
I’ve learned that we’ve got some tough stuff to handle in this country…
The reality is we’ve had some tough stuff for a while, but certain instances and events often bring specific issues to the forefront.
I’ve learned that pomp and circumstance always has the potential for goosebump giving…
That helps if we respect the office, even when challenged to respect a person.
I’ve learned that politics is still in play for too many people…
Of course, they creatively cover it up and try to sell us on a far better-sounding motive.
I’ve learned that passionate opinion — even when I don’t understand it — is to be respected…
This is not always easy, as understanding the opinion of another typically takes significant work.
I’ve learned that work is worth it…
True, sometimes we’re too tired, exhausted, or even unwilling; it’s still worth it.
I’ve learned that social media doesn’t equate to conversation…
(… oh, wait… I learned that before, too…)
I’ve learned that social media often does more harm than good…
While it’s great to keep connected, too often we feel justified in forgoing connection.
I’ve learned that people are more important than things…
That means that building relationships will always mean more than building opinion.
I’ve learned that too many times, I justify stating first how I feel rather than being intentional in asking another…
“Change Your Questions Change Your Life”… great read, by the way.
I’ve learned that it’s ok to cheer for patriots…
(… and Falcons, Packers, and Steelers, no less…)
I’ve learned that a clear majority seem to crave hope and change…
Granted, what we hope will change is different for different people.
I’ve learned that many people, groups, and adults often feel looked down upon…
Unfortunately, we can be pretty selective as to which groups we’ll support and which ones we won’t.
I’ve learned that empathy is often inconsistent…
(… going back to being selective as to which groups we’ll support…)
I’ve learned that hate speech is still alive on planet Earth.
But true, people have different perspectives and justifications as to what is/is not “hate.”
I’ve learned it’s thus easy to be judgmental — even among the intelligent.
Sometimes I don’t know what I don’t know; and if I don’t take the time to truly investigate, understand, and put myself in the shoes of another, then I’m more apt to be judgmental.
I’ve learned that when we’re judgmental, we have a hard time learning anything else.
(… no doubt one reason why it’s wise to be on our knees each day…)
I’ve learned I’ve got a lot to learn.
Why?
Because not everything I need to learn was done in kindergarten.
Respectfully…
AR