Problems with society – indications of problems with self

The problems that I see in society are the problems that I see with myself.  Perhaps others see things similar to myself, perhaps not.

• Defining ourselves as ANTI something vs. being PRO something else.  Mother Teresa was asked to go to an anti-war rally.  She refused, but she said that if they were ever throwing a pro-peace rally she would certainly attend.  The anti mentality also leads to adversarial interactions as opposed to pro mentality where common ground can be found through the different groups.
• Thinking in the SHORT TERM vs. focusing on LONG TERM results.  Looking at the fiscal crisis or obesity epidemic shows that we focus on the wrong things, that we want instant gratification. When we do look at consequences we only look at the primary consequences of our action, rarely the secondary, tertiary and subsequent consequences. This is also the cause of procrastination. In the short term it’s easier to put something off because in the short term it may be difficult to do something.  That is the paradox of difficulty of something as a function of time frame.  Those things that are “good” for us are often difficult in the short term (think exercise), but in the long term are highly beneficial.  Those things that are “bad” for us are easy in the short term (think character defects), but in the long term they make life difficult.
• Looking to BLAME others vs. accepting RESPONSIBILITY for our own actions.  Others may have caused harm to us, but we must maintain focus on ourselves and the harm we have done to others and to ourselves.
• Focusing on a mentality of LACK vs a mentality of ABUNDANCE. We are blessed and we need to be grateful for the thing that we do have. Gratitude is the way to focus on the things that we’ve been blessed with.  The lack mentality leaves us in a craving state which can cause intense suffering.
• Focusing on NEGATIVITY vs. focusing on POSITIVITY.  This is the force that produces the vilification of those whose opinions and beliefs are different than our own. The result is a sense of hopelessness if things don’t go exactly our way.  Not seeking God in others. The way out is a focus on hope and seeing God in others.
• Focusing on JUDGMENT vs. focusing on ACCEPTANCE.  I know that I have many thoughts of how things “should be”.  That implies a judgement. I must accept reality for what is, not complaining how it should be.
• Focus on the PAST & FUTURE vs. focusing on the PRESENT MOMENT.  The present moment is where serenity is, and where God is. It brings to mind the passage in scripture: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
• Having a SENSE OF ENTITLEMENT vs. having a COMMITMENT TO SERVICE.  Am I looking out for the greater good? Am I looking out for the least of my brothers? How can I be of service to others? If time truly is the most valuable asset we have, am I tithing 10% of this asset in the service of others, or in connection to God?
• Having EXPECTATIONS vs. EMBRACING UNCERTAINTY. Am I letting go of the outcome after I have given something my fullest? Working hard, doing my best is a necessity, but I must also let go and have no expectations.  After all expectations are premeditated resentments.
• Being PRIDEFUL vs. having HUMILITY.  Pride separates me from God, from peace, from contentment.  Humility provides the space or pause where God can come in.  Being full of pride doesn’t leave room left over for that pause to allow God to come in.