Happy New Year!
As we enter another year, I find myself reflecting on the state of our country and the world. While many greet the new year with hope for a fresh start, it is important to acknowledge that not all problems are left behind when the calendar turns. Personal struggles, financial difficulties, and societal challenges often follow us into the new year.
The Persistence of Division and Strife
Unfortunately, Americans were met with news of continued division and rising hatred as the year began. It feels as though it is increasingly difficult to live freely and safely.
It is challenging to feel gratitude in a country where there seems to be little regard for human beings. The constant stream of troubling news is inescapable, making it hard to avoid the reality of our current situation.
International Critique and Domestic Contradictions
Recently, I could not help but notice how the United States has continued to act on the world stage, sometimes disregarding the sovereignty of other nations, as seen in the U.S. government’s actions toward Venezuela’s President Maduro and his wife.
While not defending the harm caused by such leaders, it is worth considering the implications of U.S. involvement in other countries’ affairs, especially when our own nation faces internal issues. The actions of ICE, at times reminiscent of a “modern-day Gestapo,” raise serious concerns.
Despite arguments that agents are simply doing their jobs, the reality remains that non-violent immigrants, whose presence is a civil offense, face indefinite detention in for-profit prisons. The normalization of extreme force, such as in the cases of Renee Nicole Macklin Good and the shootings in Oregon, is troubling.
A Decline in Humanity and Decency
As the country seems to spiral further into lawlessness, many Americans continue to work, pay bills, raise families, and strive to survive. However, it feels as though we are losing our collective humanity and decency, echoing the decline of ancient Rome.
This should be a source of outrage for all, as these are not the outcomes people voted for, yet the warning signs were present. The role of elections becomes increasingly vital as leaders, when threatened, may act out in destructive ways.
The Silence of the World and the Media
It is disheartening not only to witness these events but also to see the silence of world leaders and allies. The media, which should be the voice of the people, often remains quiet or even supports the current direction of the country.
In the United States, major outlets are controlled by a small group of billionaires, shaping the narrative and shielding the world from the truth. There are still some out there that speak the truth like the Guardian and even international print.
Finding Hope and Encouraging Kindness
Despite the darkness, I hold onto hope. Humanity has always faced challenges, and even as destructive as we can be, there is a belief that God loves us all. The task before us is to resist letting our hearts grow hardened.
We must strive to respond with kindness and love, even when it feels difficult. History shows that such struggles are not new, but it is our turn to confront them as the wealthy and powerful continue to dominate and suppress the voices of many.
The Parable of the Boiling Frog
Many of us are bystanders, witnessing the unfolding horrors while going about our daily lives. The parable of the frog in boiling water illustrates how gradual changes can lead us into dangerous situations without us realizing it. If we fail to recognize the warning signs, we risk being overtaken by negative outcomes.
Guardrails of Democracy and the Road Ahead
Some may argue that our country’s institutions, such as the courts and Congress, will hold firm, but there is reason to question whether they are as strong as we believe. With each passing day, new divisions arise, and rights are threatened.
It is essential to remember that if the power to control belongs only to a select few, there is no returning to the freedoms of the past. The experiences of other nations should serve as a warning.
Personal Gratitude
As I wish everyone a prosperous new year, I hope that we can weather these challenges with as little harm as possible. Personally, I am grateful for my work, the opportunity to teach, a roof over my head, good health, and food on the table—privileges that many do not have. I am also thankful for those who take the time to read my thoughts, whether in blogs or books.
Joe Meyers Adventures 