It comes with the territory...

Is the human condition one of constant struggle? Today I've had a media overload. From the vitriolic speech of tea-baggers to the incessant crudeness of reality shows. I have to be very selective when it comes to watching TV. It's heartbreaking to realize that so much energy is put on sensationalism. But we cannot blame TV nor media for all our troubles.
It was Pride weekend here in Dallas, I volunteer to help at my church's booth. I belong to a very progressive church that is totally inclusive of diversity. It felt wonderful to celebrate our victories as an oppressed group and reaffirm our wishes for the future. On the way back to the car, I had to walk 10 blocks south from where the Pride event was taking place. I saw poverty all around me. Too many dilapidated buildings and houses inhabited by fellow Latinos. They seem particularly quiet, very quiet indeed in comparison to the party going on to the north of their neighborhood. They seemed to be lost in their thoughts. There were about ten or twelve people all together sitting in one yard watching a couple of kids play soccer. They looked tired and bored. They didn't make much noise either.
Some rejoice and others suffer. What a strange symphony. When I was a student of Tibetan Buddhism my lamas taught me to chant for the liberation of suffering and its cause. It is simply complicated. But I know hope transforms the lives of people. The worst thing a human being can be is hopeless. Hope is a call for love and realization. A loud and crystal clear call. I believe happiness exists, it might not be what you imagine it is. It might be even better.
I'm growing lots of hope in my mind-garden, so much indeed that I want to share it with everybody. I'm asking you, friends, Is the human condition one of constant hope?

Let's Be The Change

i just saw President Obama's speech at Congress. I was very inspired to hear him talk about the importance of education in our nation. It is of utmost importance that we prepare our future generations to fully realize their potential. I was moved to tears by the schoolgirl from South Carolina that wrote to Congress to ask for help in improving the poor conditions of her own school. When the first Lady embraced that precious girl I felt the warmth and the Love. Boy, are we connected with each other more than we think! All through his speech I heard the word hope and possibility. I understand political rhetoric. I also know that we have been so accustomed to hear empty promises from phony politicians that it is difficult not to be skeptical when you hear inspiring language. But we must understand that rhetoric in itself is just a style of speech that when employed with honesty and vision can empower people to take action and improve their lives. I felt that this evening. I just love the idea of government helping those who cannot pay for college by asking them commit time and effort in helping their communities. This is the core of citizenship, giving back what you received. There is an unequivocal sense of dignity when you work hard for others. When you volunteer or work for something or someone other than yourself you make the biggest contribution. You instantly become a strong link in the chain of humanity because you both recognize the need in others and know that you are part of the solution. Feeling this connection is vital to our overall well being. I wish we finally understand that life is not about having but about being. Let's be the change we need. Let's burst the selfish bubbles that contain our fears and reach out to whomever needs us. In this spirit I'm joining in. I already feel the energy. Let's be builders of this dream.