Hope and Humanity

[Mythsaje]

I believe in the future.

I know this isn't exactly a popular belief around these parts. We're supposed to believe that it's all going to come crashing down in some calamitous way because of our long-standing folly and disregard for our planet.

This is not to say I'm ignorant of the damage we've done, or the possible long-term repercussions. I do not deny that we've done some remarkably short-sighted things and those who have been in power have done their level best to consider the short-term interests of a few major industries rather than the long-term interests of the human race.

But I believe we humans are truly amazing creatures, beneath all our hatred, fear, and fumbling stupidity. We have accomplished some truly remarkable things, and I believe that we have it within us to accomplish things that make those things that came before look like little more than child's play.

I don't know if there's a design behind all of this. There are several things that lead me to believe otherwise. Religion holds no answers for me. I actually envy those for whom it does.

My faith, such as it is, lies with US. People like those who gather here at DU, who argue passionately about the fate of the planet, and of the people and other creatures that populate it. People strong, intelligent, and thoughtful enough to challenge the status quo at times and make their voices heard throughout the world.

We did it on November 7th. We replaced a Congress that did nothing to stop the runaway train of destruction with one that sees the danger ahead and may undertake the steps necessary to slow it down, if not stop it completely. A Congress made up of people who do not fear or distrust science, and who may help fund research that leads us to find solutions to the problems that confront us.

Without hope, there is nothing but despair. And nothing will destroy us more completely than surrendering to that despair.

I'm not good at surrendering.

So forgive me if I say to the doomsayers--say not that we're doomed, but that we MUST do what can be done to turn the tide. Speak not of death and destruction, but life and reclamation. Because it is THESE things that will prove to be the most important in the end.

The only guaranteed way to lose the fight, is never to fight at all.

On this Thanksgiving Eve I say to you-we are humanity, and humanity is more than just a species of tool-using primate. Humanity is more than that. Just the word itself means more than that.

I'm not waiting for the world to end. I'm waiting for the world to change.

[Mythsaje]

1. Ah, geez...

Shameless self-kick.

[Kiouni]

2. well said,

you seem to value action over idle prayers, how very rational of you. I think people could learn a lot from this post. K&R

[Beam Me Up]

3. Finally, a thread worth being thankful for.

So, THANK YOU! :hi:

[northofdenali]

4. Once again, eloquence.

I certainly hope to read books that you write; I envy your ability with words. The best part about reading what you've written is the logic and compassion I find there. And the hope.

On Thanksgiving (I know it's later there, but it's 2:38 am here) I wish you and your family/friends/loved ones an Aurora of life. The Lights are a gift that I love sharing, especially on days when thanks are heartfelt.

Those of us who care will always do what must be done. And, sometimes, we might do it right, and it will count.

Here's to DU, friends, and life! Salute!



(Photo isn't mine, was taken by a friend - but I was there. We're lucky. Even at 45 below, there's beauty. Maybe that's a lesson.)

[Pharaoh]

6. Great Pic!

it is now my wallpaper :toast: Happy Thanksgiving :beer:

[hsher]

9. Myth's a hell of a writer

:kick:

I consider myself a fan. I read all he posts.

[greyl]

5. I love the hopeful attitude, but have a tiny question.

What do you mean by "We are humanity"?

This may only be a semantic issue, but I think it can provide hope to realize that we are not humanity. I'm using "we" to mean our culture.

[Mythsaje]

7. I mean "we" to mean ALL of us... n/t

[greyl]

8. All 6.5 billion humans?

Not a subgroup of progressives in America?
(sorry if I'm being dense)