We have all been through it lately, haven’t we? Between the pandemic, the exposing of undeniable social and civil injustices, and the constant political fighting, we have certainly had our share of difficulties over the past 16 months. So many of us have lost jobs, homes and family members with the true impact of these many global emergencies yet to be fully felt. It seems that we are at a point where we are going to have some choices in how we want to re-envision and rebuild not only our societies, but ourselves as individuals as well. As we heal and move forward the most pertinent questions are: how do we truly want to live? and: how do we make that happen?

Most of our lives are based off of priorities that are not in fact our own. They are forced onto us by society, our families, or our financial systems. If just the weight of the financial stresses of our lives were eliminated, think of how different life would be? So much of the time we spend scurrying from one place to the next just hoping to not be late, or fired. Can you imagine what the world would be like if we did not fear for money? It would not cure all of the problems with humanity, but it would be nothing short of an absolute miracle, and the planet would be a staggeringly different place. Is that idea even possible? At some point we will need to reassess the value that we currently place on money, and ask why we treasure it more than each other, and ourselves. 

What is it that matters most to us as a species? When you close your eyes and imagine a world we could all actively remake and be apart of, what do you see? One of the biggest lies that has ever been told is that it is too late, and there is no hope for us anyway. Humanity is meant to simply struggle and fight, and snuff itself out with greed and violence. We do not have to accept this as a fact even if it may feel that way, or even seem obvious. There is more than enough good and love in the world right now within all of us to save not only ourselves, but this beautiful planet we share as well. It is not too late, and humanity does not always have to teeter on the brink of disaster due to our silliness and short sightedness. 

Why would we have the ideals and feelings that we can do better if that were not possible? It seems to me that we are very much capable of being a more advanced species than we are currently just by treating ourselves and each other with more basic kindness and consideration. It is not through technology and advanced scientific formulas that we make this world a better place. It is through each one of us accepting the love that is at the center of all of us, and all things, and choosing to respect and value that above all else. 

It is not religion or politics that will unite us as a globe, and help nurture us into a renaissance where we are more keenly aware of beauty and truth. Only love can and will do that. Each one of us can try to make the realities of love a priority in our daily lives one decision at a time. Fully aware that the only thing that truly matters in this life is the love we have for ourselves, and each other.