A well-known parable or anecdote, often attributed to various spiritual or philosophical traditions, illustrates the progression of focus and priorities through the different stages of life, highlighting a journey toward inward reflection and personal peace. The story doesn’t have a singular or definitive source; instead, it appears in various adaptations, often within the context of personal growth, wisdom, or spiritual teachings. It tells about a man in his youth, who had a lot of energy to devote to making the world a better place. Then in his middle age, he only had enough energy to focus on those around him. And in his old age, he was happy just to focus on peace within himself. While this journey is common for many of us, we don’t have to abandon the goal of making the world a better place!
I recall when friends were totally devoted to the antiwar effort and civil rights movement in the 60s and 70s. However, after a few months went by, some friends quit, saying that they just wanted to focus on inner peace. And recently, when someone commented on a FB post about how we all should be more devoted to world peace, someone commented that she just tries to be nice to those around her.
On the contrary, we should all try to be as active as possible, (even considering old age, health problems, family, and job commitments). There are many ways to fight injustice, war, and inequality, not only in our own country (which is BADLY needed), but in the world as well. Consider the unjust war in Ukraine, genocide in Gaza, and the starvation in Southern Sudan.
You do not have to march in protests or carry signs to be heard. You can write letters to, send emails to, or call your elected representatives. You can donate to organizations that represent your views. Many are highly rated for their effectiveness. They should be spending their money on lawyers or lobbyists who fight for your views. You can discuss (not argue) issues with others. Push back is good if you have factual information to back your position. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
In other words, it behooves us as human beings to not just settle for peace within ourselves. This is especially easy considering how economically well off most of us are compared to the rest of the world. It is easy when you live in a town that is relatively peaceful and not threatened by disease or terrorism. We must continue to fight against injustice and inequality. We must work to bring peace throughout the world. This is even true in today’s America where, most recently, there is a fight to defend victims of Trump’s acts of injustice. For example, consider the college student who has a green card but was recently arrested and charged with a criminal act even though he was simply exerting his right to free speech and assembly – to protest the genocide in Gaza. Or consider the arrest of Venezuelans with no habeas corpus rights, using an old and obscure law and executive power. There needs to be a pushback against what appears to be the deliberate destruction of our Constitutional Democracy!
“When injustice become law, resistance becomes duty.” (a quotation attributed to Thomas Jefferson)
Thoughts from the Middle by Robert J. Fischer 