Thanksgiving should be a time for reflection. The parade is on so the kids at our house are occupied and I can spend a few minutes at the computer. I certainly have plenty to be thankful for. Yesterday, I turned 71. My age and health is certainly something I appreciate and no longer take for granted. My extended family is also doing well and we live close enough in our retirement to see everyone frequently. Life is good for us. I certainly appreciate my life and my lifestyle.
A great life comes with responsibilities. As folks who read my posts understand, I often use this platform to recognize serious issues I feel an obligation to recognize. Lately, I have been so frustrated with our leaders and their self-absorption that I seldom get beyond complaining about them to addressing the issues not holding our attention. Here are the topics we all should spend some time today using our free time to consider.
Inequities abound – a holiday dedicated to giving thanks is a great time to recognize the multiple inequities we allow. Allow is the word I intend. This seems a time of growing self-focus. Our leadership makes the argument we need to block those in great need from entering our land of plenty. Our focus on a winner take all economics has resulted in growing income inequity. The disparities are at such a ridiculous level that those with great wealth have so much the only real benefit of their wealth is to exert power and manipulate. To argue against this widening disparity now labels you as a socialist. What does that descriptor even mean to those who apply it to others? To me, it seems to translate as “we have ours, too bad for you”.
Climate change – folks my age can ignore what the scientists tell us about our deteriorating climate. We will not live to see the decline that faces our children. At least, our leaders should be willing to acknowledge that this is real and they are just willing to be indifferent. Who knows, perhaps being realistic about the future offers the opportunity for innovation, new occupations, and no industries.
Health care – old folks do think a lot about health. Our nation offers the potential for elite health care, but the belief that health care is a business limits the opportunity for many to purchase adequate insurance and adequate care. Of all the areas of life, why is staying alive and healthy not an opportunity that is equally provided? This is something other countries have figured out and it appears a nation that aspires to be great cannot.
Be happy. Be thankful. Don’t be selfish.