Can’t we all just get along?
17 years ago, I remember watching Rodney King plead “Can’t we all just get along” on television news broadcasts. Rodney King asked the citizens of Los Angeles, CA to stop fighting each other, looting stores, and acting recklessly.
While we are not looting stores, many people are pointing their finger at others, blaming each other, and in some instances fighting. The world economic crisis has many people on edge and a lot of people are looking for someone to blame. Let’s stop blaming each other. Trade compassion for anger. Try not to be upset with your neighbor for having their home foreclosed on and bringing property values down in your neighborhood.
Stop
Stop pointing the finger at AIG executives, insurance companies, overpaid CEOs, and the neighbor next door who couldn’t afford the home they purchased and lost it to foreclosure. Look within yourself and determine what you can do to make your situation better.
Act Now
If you want solutions, take action (legally). If you don’t agree with how a company fires some of their employees and gives raises and bonuses to others, don’t give them your money. Support companies whose mission statement echos your beliefs.
Write, Write, Write
Do not estimate the power of the pen. Write letters to your congressman or woman and tell them about your views on issues that are important to you. Write letters to companies who you support. Let those companies know the positive reasons why you shop in their stores…and while your at it, give them a few suggestions on how they can make your experience better. Write letters to stores you do not support and tell them why. If enough people do this, stores may change their practices to reflect the practices of its patrons.
Have compassion
Compassion is an important part of happiness. Studies show that people who are more compassionate and less judgmental of others are happier and healthier. Share with your neighbor. If you have excess fruit or vegetables from your garden, offer some to your neighbor. Smile at a stranger. If you are unemployed and have extra time, volunteer at a library.
I believe we can all get along!
- Mama
Mama, I like this post very much. It reminds me of ‘I’m starting with the man in the mirror’ – great song. If we all did just a little bit of what you write about above, the world would be such a smooth operating machine. Everyone listen to Mama!