Please..

 

The systems we live in are frameworks which are supposed to help define civility and aid the flow and function by which we can cooperatively and peacefully live our lives. Their existence should not to be taken lightly nor should any be presumed immutable - no system should be declared absolute and complete. We can always seek to do better. Weaknesses within ourselves should be faced with honesty and clarity, and resolved with a sense of self respect. Our interactions across all realms of connection should be exercised with a sense of respect for difference in approach and mode of thought, each appreciated for the capacity to lend fresh perspective, a check and balance against rigour. Every facet, every avenue which we choose to investigate should similarly face a rigorous challenge of mindful reason and ethic, adjustments and accountability brought to bear, to better ensure that we are not letting anyone or anything down.

Even as our basic natures seek the best leadership and ideas, systems which are built upon such leaderships and ideas should not be allowed to become the purview of any one mind or ideology, for that way lies the cyclic, tiresome trap of extremism. Systems are not to be manipulated into such a state as to cast out the majority of citizens concerns, to enrich individuals and slake desires where the end goals are of such limited benefit that it weakens the whole. Systems are not the playthings of narrow concerns, constructs to be wielded by fake ally opponents, whether poor or wealthy, under or over-privileged, those lacking with fragile, fickle, immature egos.

Finally the demands and wishes of systems are ultimately subservient to the requirements of the planet. Without the cradle those demands and wishes are for nothing. If we wish to develop and evolve, we should do so with an accountable footprint. Even as we grow there is no room nor justification for allowing the spread of ignorance and disregard through the universe. If we cannot accommodate comfortably and respectfully by a particular doctrine, we ought to reconsider the legitimacy of such a design going forwards. If we cannot afford it, we should exercise restraint and find the better way. Nothing should be enacted without a fundamental assessment and respect for cause and effect. The basic tenet of Buddhism, that if you can do no good then at least do no harm, is never more relevant a concern when addressing our behaviours.

The only person you can truly seek to challenge and master is your own self, even as that sense of self may be an illusion. It’s all we have to reckon with. Demand more from yourself by values, ensuring that those values are informed, virtuous, benign and constructive, validated by demonstrable truths yet flexible enough to become renewed with better insight. Don’t hate yourself for things you have done in the past which you cannot change – such consequences, however regrettable, are done and finished. Instead mull over those weak spots and become the change within yourself such that you will be able to see such mistakes and catch them before it happens again. When you fail to do so, forgive yourself and try again – always keep trying. Encourage others to be the best they can be. Share not in argument, rumour and discontent but in debate, reason and deeper discussion from a place of humility and sincerity. Don’t wait only to respond as another speaks. Truly listen to them, be patient with your thoughts and respond with humility and sincerity.

We can be better if we choose to be. Every moment is an opportunity to make a good choice. No matter who you are, you are a part of the whole. It may comprise of a far greater number from your internal point of view, yet you are still a rare part. As such, and in the next moment, what will you choose?