Same, same, but different?

The title might remind you of a catchphrase some time ago, advertizing for the “Life!” section of The Straits Times. It sort of summarizes what was going through my mind as I read the article from Geopolitical Futures again. The article link is below.

1991: False Dawn

History repeats itself. History rhymes. What these people are trying to say is that history is already a foregone conclusion because it has set itself on a trajectory, the end of which we all know. It takes a decision to be able to move out of that set trajectory, but the power to do so is available, if only we would avail ourselves of that power. Well, since most people do not want to turn to God but instead rely on themselves, then they will come up with ideas like that of history rhyming instead of inexorably repeating itself.

History repeats. History Rhymes. History…???

Remember Thomas Sowell’s classic “A Tale of Two Visions”? Well, I am of the Constrained, or the Tragic, vision, where human nature does not change, and institutions are needed to hold power in check or there will be chaos. I of course say submit to God, but since few are willing to do so, institutions it must be.

Reading the Geopolitical Futures’ article again remids me of this truth, so do not be bowled over by screams of “unprecedented”, “catastrophic”, “never before” and similar tripe. Recognize that the world and humans are as they are, not as we might like them to be, and make your own decisions as to how you are going to contribute and make things better wherever you are. By that I do not mean “going green”, “save the planet” and any of that kind of ludicrous hubris. I simply mean, how are you going to improve yourself by maybe one percent per day, or start doing one small thing which will make things better for yourself and for people around you. Putting your heart, mind and body to work well would be one. Being punctual is another. Following up on your promises is good, and maybe deciding to always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and choosing to give way more often than not would go a long way.

Contact me if you would like me to help you build those disciplines.

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