I don’t want a lot

We are destroying the world and we can’t seem to stop.

Power, greed or fanaticism is the motivating force – human nature. I fear it’s in us all.

I am incredibly fortunate. I was born into a stable, civilized country. The law might not be perfect but there is order. Equality might not be brilliant but there is a safety net of sorts. We have the freedom to criticize even if nobody listens. It could be a lot worse.

I did not realise how lucky I was that my parents loved me, gave me room and encouragement and did not shackle me with their own views. I grew up able to think and do things my own way.

When I look around at the poverty, hunger, war, indoctrination and religious mania I feel extremely lucky.

I have always been a stupid optimistic idealist. I think we can make things better, solve all the problems and that the vast majority of people are caring, tolerant and reasonable. I also believe that the greedy, selfish, violent and hate-filled are like they are because they are sick; they have been damaged, traumatized and hurt; they have been brought up to hate, steal, exploit and be selfish.

Human beings are Jekyll and Hyde. We are capable of monstrous sadism and thoughtless destruction and yet we can sacrifice ourselves altruistically for love or belief. What a conumdrum.

It is time we healed the sick and made a better future for ourselves and the planet.

We can do it if we want.

I Don’t want a lot

 

I don’t want to be a millionaire

With yacht and limousine.

I don’t need a million fans

To shout and scream.

I have no wish to join the club

And watch my Ps and Qs.

I don’t desire all the fame

And to feature on the news.

 

I only want to change the world.

That’s all.

To heal and make it sing.

 

Opher 14.11.2015