We are into the home stretch. Where we are heading is unclear, but that’s SNAFU.
Some of these lessons are reprised, but still apt, because some of us are not quick learners. Apply liberally as needed.
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Life is a gift; Life is brutal; Life is short. Use your time wisely.
Happiness is a choice; Gratitude -> happiness.
Hope = courage.
Connection is the essence of living.
Singing is releasing; Laughter is contagious; Wine makes things better. Share each liberally.
Alone can be satisfying; Alone can be liberating; Loneliness = misery. We should make each other less miserable.
Knowledge does not = wisdom. Wisdom = Knowledge + experience + consciousness.
Consciousness is an act of will. Awareness is an intentional choice.
Fear and need breed resentment; Resentment breeds intolerance. Inclusiveness = contentment + confidence.
We > you or I.
Traditions help create meaning; Mindless ritual and dogma destroy meaning. Tribalism is not community.
No one expects the Spanish Inquisition.
Nature is immortal; Nature is impartial; Nature is patient; We are neither. Nature will prevail.
We all emerge from the same place; We all return to the same state. There is no “other”.
We are all One. Stop fighting it.
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All of your essay touched me, Al (as usual); but when I started the video ... instant tears. I grew up in what had been Shaker country, and my mother adored their furniture, as well as other aspects of their life. Thank you for prompting some very precious childhood memories.
You are wise and compassionate, my friend.
And as usual, the musical accompaniment was superb!