Joy. Sometimes you need to hear it in a person's voice. Had a marvelous experience with Lex Fridman's talk with Ivanka. Had no idea. Made me sad on account of some folks in my life — myself included — and a lot of the knee-jerk reactions we all have as events unfold around us. Oh, that we could just practice patience, listening, curiosity, courage, and love. And acceptance — of others, and ourselves.
I had an encouraging talk with a co-worker this morning on these and other important matters. It helps to have a friend.
But oh, that we could all have Ivanka's joy.
As I write, it occurs to me how one might read that statement, and regard her privilege and status as the basis of her attitude. Who wouldn't feel elated about life when one doesn't want for anything? Heck, we should all be so lucky... and then our faces also would shine.
Let me remind all of us that neither she, nor any of us asked for it. We didn't ask for our parents, our country of origin, our hair or skin color. Those aren't the things of life that we can control. Let's take a long hard look at the difference between the two in any individual. I almost added, "...before we judge." But I won't. I say, don't judge at all. Rather, let's celebrate the good that she and all of us have done, and likewise lament where we have so often missed the mark. It's normal and human to admire and praise, and also to feel the full spectrum of emotions — including sadness and rage. But let's be very slow to assign a judgment to any individual themselves. Such an act is a sobering and grave thing to do, in my opinion, and should be avoided whenever possible.
The objecting person hasn't yet taken the time to hear her story, and to listen carefully to her life and points of view. That is my objection to the objector and haters. Please let's all take the time to not paint with a broad brush. Let's instead hear everyone out — especially our opponents and enemies.
Please check out that episode, and I think you'll see what I mean: The Lex Fridman Podcast, Episode 436.
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