Friday, June 22, 2018

Change begins with the...


[Wo]Man in the Mirror

...I'm starting with the man in the mirror
I'm asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you want to make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself, and then make a change...”
Michael Jackson (“Man in the Mirror”; songwriters Siedan Garrett & Glen Ballard)

I watched the video of a graduating class in Charlotte doing a flash dance to this song in their caps and gowns in the middle of their high school graduation ceremony and just sat at my computer and cried. Such a beautiful, youthful image of young people doing what young people should be doing—spontaneously expressing their hopes and dreams for life.

I want this world to make room for their beauty and their passion. I want the world to be kinder and more caring to them. In order for that to happen, I must change who I am; I must learn to be kinder and more caring myself. Change starts with me—the woman in the mirror.

Change is never easy. For some reason, we humans fight it tooth and nail. It is not until we become conscious of the harm we're causing by fighting it do some of us come around. I don't know anyone who does not want a better life for their children and grandchildren, but I know many people who do not believe it is they who must be willing to change in order for that to happen. Giving up some of our privilege, being conscientious about doing everything we can to make the planet cleaner and safer for future generations, opening our hearts to the stranger and seeing them as human beings desiring the same good life for their children and grandchildren. These are the changes that will make the world a better place. Isn't that what we all want?

                                                     In the Spirit,
                                                        Jane

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