It is Time to (re)Build

Sometimes things in our lives have to be completely ripped open, broken down, torn apart, or demolished for us to be forced to either release or rebuild. This is true for many areas of our lives from relationships, to jobs, and homes. Often, too many people continue merely existing in this world without the drive or push to change and improve our circumstances. We complain about our work, living situations, health, families, schools, finances, and just about everything.  Until something, such as a pandemic or natural disaster occurs and rocks our world upside down. Now, we are forced to look at our lives straight on and rethink ways of making changes. 

So much in this world has remained neglected for far too long. This is why I believe that the recurring hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, tornadoes, and now a worldwide pandemic, are all trying to tell us something. Why do we remain so stubborn and deaf.  Since we refused to listen for so long, the world was shut down and now we are forced into isolation and ourselves. 

This time brought a perfect opportunity to rethink every aspect of our societies; including,  education, health care, housing,  farming, the justice system, policing, sustainable resources, community engagement, faith, and mental health. This is a crucial time for the right decisions to be made. We must know what areas are irreparable and require complete restructuring, what systems to abolish, and what structures simply need some reimagining.

It is easy for me to say that there ought to be free (preschool through college) education for all. It is not so easy to devise and implement these plans with a government and leaders with very different ideas.  I not only have the experience and education to create a provocative argument for educational rights and reform; however, if the audience lacks the desire to listen, my words are moot. The sad reality is that through my experiences with multiple school districts and administrators, those in leadership roles too often lack the heart and mind to hear and care about what is right for our students.   

It will take folks from every field of expertise to collaborate and rise up to transform each of these corrupt areas of society. It is time to find one area of interest, passion, knowledge, and unrest to focus on improving. Every little thing we do will multiply into bigger things. We have to believe that our actions can make a difference. We must use our power and platforms to be light in dark places and restore hope and possibilities in our world.  

If this pandemic has taught me anything it has taught me that I can simultaneously be my best adversary and ally. Our minds are extremely powerful and at times I struggle with winning the battle between my emotions and will. There are many things I want to do, from writing books, creating art, and gardening, to continuing to educate and speak. Does my fear of failure get in the way? Every day. Do I lack motivation and direction? Sure. Do I get discouraged and feel unworthy? Of course. Am I certain that I will walk in my life's purpose? Almost. My faith and hope has brought me to a life that I never could have imagined. I am ever grateful for my blessings and will continue living to serve.