Think globally, live locally

Ground war in Gaza; Malaysian jet shot out of the sky; 50,000+ children being abandoned on the U.S. border; criminals well-armed and rampant in gun-controlled Chicago; crowd beating of man stopping to help a child accidently hit; students poisoning teachers; gunmen shooting two-year olds; free speech challenges; religious freedom adjudicated; millions of cars deemed unsafe to drive; police officers ambushed by gang members; idiots on the left/idiots on the right.

Why do we even get out of bed?

I recently remarked (via FB) that I’m the luckiest guy on the planet – I stand by that statement. My post was immediately after two hours of telephone conversation with a former mentor who needed, well, mentoring; or, at least an ear.

In the previous few weeks, I’ve been able to tackle a big project with a former mentee, knock out some delicious eats for a party of 130+, hear an update from a young man nearing the end of his ROTC training and the start of a most promising military career, help some people direct their donations to some very important needs, praise and correct, and take my mother to lunch.

The farm has a few upgrades; I’m involved in a couple weddings this summer; found an amazing deal on a power washer; delivered good news and bad news; tended my little garden; over-tipped the fellows who spent extra time washing the truck; helped my alma mater; scored par on two holes.

Chores, for the most part, are up to date and the weekend is well-planned.

National and international challenges are real and deserve attention and understanding – but, ought they never prevent us from living life locally.

Go say “hello” to your neighbors.






Image reported in the public domain and available here:  
http://www.clipartpal.com/clipart_pd/education/schoolnewspaper_11676.html