Jeanne Reed
"Paravent de la Misere"
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| (Photos by Patrick Fraser) |
Umbrella = Parapluie - something against the rain
Paravent de la Misere = protection from misery.
It seems that half the people in our world are suffering - most through no fault of their own!
While preparing dinner I watch the evening and PBS news. Broadcasters usually start with the “count” - how many people were shot in the past 24 hours. The shooters rarely seem to hit their intended targets. The news continues with an outpouring of events and actions perpetrated by selfish, greedy, power-hungry, fearful, brain - washed, narrow-minded or sick people. Many seem to enjoy the hate, adventure, excitement or fulfillment of these acts. Next come reports of the latest natural disaster or epidemic and peoples’ heroic efforts to assist the victims. The part that I like is the “Making a Difference” segment that tries to present a little balance.
My mother used to say “The pendulum swings.” It does seem that the less desirable destructive traits of human nature are gaining ground and control. Even enlightened, well-meaning leaders are having trouble finding the answer. Caring people donate time and money to helpful causes hoping to reduce some of the suffering but it is not enough to change the direction of the pendulum.
How can we affect the future in a positive way?
What if we made a worldwide effort to teach children how to create a good life for themselves and others by being responsible, productive citizens who can interact with all kinds of people? What if we put more of our time, talents and money into nurturing and educating people - and less into the production/distribution of arms and bullets to destroy them?
Would our world be a better place?