Don’t you hate it when people characterize you wrongly? It is a part of human nature to use comparisons and groups to make points and form conclusions. Sometimes the study of language and philosophy is presented as a rigid and disciplined study, but it sets boundaries so we can do well at presenting reality and recognize fallacies. There seems to be two current philosophical views. One is that of a relative nature; the people who look at everything in comparisons and see the world through snippets and snapshots. But I agree with those who look at things from a romantic view, one that sees everything as fluid; where everyone has hidden potential that they can use to improve the world around them. Sometimes it is difficult because romantics are mischaracterized.

When looking at world events, I despise ideals that turn free people into subjects. An example would be a religious order that puts people in fear while woman are covered up, beaten, and treated like slaves. Under these conditions, all the potential for accomplishment that is possible for each woman has been effectively stifled, most of their choices taken away. But this happens in every case where self appointed minders feel they know what is better for another group or individual. When I see videos about feeding the hungry, I see the potential in every individual and it seems diabolical to throw food at them just to make oneself feel better. Feeding people in a society to make oneself feel better seems selfish and superficial to me. There are ministries and social programs that exist solely to instill a need in people to constantly use them as props. It is like a doctor rebreaking a person’s leg instead of setting it in order to keep them as a patient. The objective for any kind of help should always be to stop the cycle even if it is painful at first.

Those who ascribe to a relative view thrive on comparing the rich with the poor, the strong with the weak, always condemning those who happen to be on the side of reaching their potential. Everything is static to them and no one could possibly have a mind to improve their own lot. And yet hardships make us learn and grow. There are times when people need a hand up but that should be the exception. Whenever a person receives something without an exchange for effort, they owe something more. They owe obedience and become a subject. This is good for control freaks but it is a disgrace to receive assistance to those who are motivated and have self respect.

My son and I ate at a Taco Bell once that had the fastest person at making tacos that we had ever seen. We bought extra just to see her work. Sure, it was a low paying job but she was excelling at what she was doing and we walked away inspired. To this day we talk about the experience. That is what I mean by being a romantic. Some of the best stories, ancient or otherwise, begin with someone in need or in a disaster. To see how they pull themselves out, excel, and thumb their nose at the world inspires awe. I hate it when associations step in and take credit for what individuals do. It is disgusting when politicians take credit for economies and the accomplishments of a nation’s citizens. I am inspired by the stories of everyday people who rise up out of their circumstances and make a good life for themselves.