In a Time of Peace

With the news turned off on TV and radio, the mind settles on issues that matter, issues that can be addressed, solutions that can be pondered, and the creative juices that make this possible as individuals of good will work together to build the best outcomes. Think about it. We are not arguing about how, but discussing the outcome desired, defining it, giving it size and heft. Then our group works backward toward our current situation and wonders how to move from here to the futured efficiently and effectively.

Working together to find workable solutions to common problems is a worthy expenditure of time and brain power. It can be done when competition does not skew motivations among the participants. Being truly collaborative is the secret to this process. If we are trying to find a cure for cancer, we focus our energies on that outcome. This specific challenge is complicated because of the many forms of cancers, the differing cellular constructs of the cancers, and the tissues specifically affected by different cancers.

If cancer cures are related to financial reward, then competition and motivations are called into play. This is the issue we have currently with both cancer research and the congress. 

The competition is between parties and ideologies. If one wins, it gains power, prestige and the money that comes with it. This might be meaningless except the outcomes are not gained by either party. The goal is lost in the competition. When might we get back to the business of governing? And focusing on what really matters?

The story of old is that Rome burned while Nero fiddled. So also, our planet suffers as political powers skirmish over power and money while global warming goes unchallenged.

Inflation is argued by politicians as though it has a single cause. It does not. In fact, current inflation has been caused by a combination of factors. Some factors were political mistakes (cutting taxes on wealthy households and corporations) as well as pumping endless cash into private hands without care of building infrastructure and investment in the means of production. Mistakes have been made. By both political parties. It is up to them to work together to solve problems. I would posit that inflation is a nonissue at this point. Were it to continue for several quarters, then it would become a problem. Currently, prices are responding to a return to economic activity following the challenges of the pandemic. The pandemic is not over. Caution is needed to not react to problems not yet fully known.

Blaming any one individual for these problems is senseless and misleading. It also detracts attention from workable solutions to actual problems. The cynical temper of the times is defeating the goodwill of the people. Now that is a problem worthy of quick solutions.

When might we expect principled officials to address these problems? I am hoping soon, but I am not holding my breath!

January 17, 2022

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