There are a lot of voices giving directions and in the midst of all the egotistical, power-driven and messianic shouting; humanity and our world seem to be spinning, with increasing speed, in larger and larger circles.
The need, I believe, is to focus on how we can reduce the circumference of these circles and slow down our collective ship floating in a sea of chaos, competing ideas, ideologies and disorder. We may then have a chance to become more centered in our search for a sense of harmony, and destination of peace.
There is an inherent quality in all of us to free ourselves from the bondage of ignorance, oppression and the control exercised over us by others. Whether male, female, LBGTQ, we all have the right to be honoured as an equal and respected member of humanity. To become submissive creatures to power, dogma and other forms of control is a violation and disrespect to the very nature of our human design, human dignity and freedom.
The question then becomes, how do we as individuals ensure some ownership in determining the direction of our collective ship? How are we empowered to help determine our destination?
This will only be possible when we, as a people, acquire the ability and wisdom to live in a culture framed and embraced by real cooperation and collaboration rather than dominated by a culture of competition, particularly within the economic context.
Once we understand that our individual security, rights and happiness are determined by the integrity and trust of our relationship with the collective of which we are a part, we will be empowered to share and care for each other within a democratic, collaborative culture, with a deeper understanding and appreciation of our common humanity.
Hopefully, with our new age of technology, internet and social media, there is the possibility of creating a growing undercurrent of collective intelligence, wisdom, common sense and a spirit of solidarity, centred on what makes us the same while respecting each other's uniqueness. This will nurture a more equitable, just and collaborative world.
Legitimate democracies will give expression in the service to others rather than political gain and service to self. Consensus building will encourage the coalescing of disparate groups, which will help in centring our collective focus on fundamental priorities and values that will be the basis of human centred governance and the common good.
As the summer sun and rain nurture new life and some time for reflection, let us remind ourselves that hope like summer is a reality. Love, happiness and peace are the destinations for which we all hope and desire.
If we frame our quest within a more respectful, sharing and cooperative culture, the reality of reaching these destinations will be as certain as the warm and refreshing winds of summer.
Wilf Borgstede, St. Albert
