Rain-spattered window, Oxford Street, London. If you and I look out this window, chances are we won't see the same things.
A tsunami in Tonga and the Somoan Islands; an earthquake in Indonesia. Refugees driven from their homes by the conflict in Yemen. Children going to bed hungry; others dying of malnutrition or curable diseases. These are real people grappling with serious issues; huge problems that cross socio-economic divides and traverse geographic borders.
The world has trouble enough. We don't need manufactured hatred and fear-mongering spread by right-wing talk show hosts and conspiracy theorists, polluting the atmosphere. We don't need personal prejudices of two former drug-addicted radio and television hosts foisted on a gullible and too-often ignorant public. The irresponsibility of Glenn Beck, Rush Limbaugh and their ilk (including the RNC and its ill-advised collaboration with "News"max) and the cynicism of their reckless and inflammatory behaviour beggars belief.
Of course those who shout the loudest don't worry about dangerous consequences of their actions, as long as they're raking in big bucks. Money is power in America; just ask Rupert Murdoch and other corporate media moguls and companies who encourage and sponsor ever-increasing vitriol in the name of ratings. Just ask Hollywood moguls (and French politicians) eager to overlook Roman Polanski's crimes, simply because he's an artist and a celebrity (and his films take in big box-office receipts).
Peace begins at home and we need to dial the hysteria register down a notch or two. We need to THINK FOR OURSELVES; read and be informed about the facts, not speculation or conjecture. Searching for common ground - rather than constantly focusing on our differences - would be a good start.
As Jalaladdin Rumi said, "Out beyond ideas of right-doing and wrong-doing, there is a field. I'll meet you there."
And an excerpt of Mary Oliver's poem Mysteries, Yes:
"...Let me keep my distance, always, from those who think they have the answers."
"...Let me keep company always with those who say
"Look!" and laugh in astonishment
and bow their heads."
"Look out any window" is a reference to Bruce Hornsby's song of the same name.
Totally agree with you Yoli.
Posted by: kathy | 09 October 2009 at 20:20
WOW, Never thought I would find someone who thinks like me. Well done girl, and keep up the good work.
Posted by: kathy | 09 October 2009 at 20:17
Thank you Tara, you wrote so clearly what I also feel. Love the quotes by Rumi and Mary Oliver.
Posted by: Rosa Phoenix | 04 October 2009 at 03:33
Tara the danger here is that the climate in which we live in right now, gives fuel to these charlantans. Every lie, every fear that the public might harbor is ammnunition for these people. It is like an unstoppable machine. Every time you try to voice reason, you are called ellitist, out of touch with the common man. I am afraid that it will get worse before it gets any better.
Posted by: yoli | 02 October 2009 at 20:37
Mind you, the women of The View are ALL commentators! So I take back the I rarely watch commentators part of my previous comment. *grin*
Posted by: susanna's sketchbook | 02 October 2009 at 14:58
Yes!!! I completely agree with you. Glenn Beck was on The View recently and he actually admitted that he wasn't an investigative reporter but a "commentator". Barbara Walters, of course, immediately picked that up and began questioning him. And he tried backpedaling. It's on Youtube now although it amazes me that there are those who will still defend him. Ah well. I rarely watch "commentators" anymore. It's just too depressing.
Posted by: susanna's sketchbook | 02 October 2009 at 03:57
TRUTH TO POWER, lady. Speak it. I couldn't agree more.
:)
Posted by: Amber | 01 October 2009 at 22:03
You say it best Tara.
Peace begins at home!!
Mary Oliver says good too!"...Let me keep my distance, always, from those who think they have the answers."
That's why I can't watch the tv too much. It freaks me out.
Have a MAGNIFICENT time with Lady Di!
xox
Constance
Posted by: Rochambeau | 01 October 2009 at 22:03
Totally agree with the sentiment - which was beautifully articulated, btw, and absolutely love the photo.
Posted by: Rebecca | 01 October 2009 at 21:17
i think Gillian said it best, about Roman Polanski- "ew"
i am looking out of your window, and it is beautiful, a bit rainy, but filled with home.
xo
Posted by: christina | 01 October 2009 at 19:58
We each in turn must act responsibly. I think that to "think for ourselves" is of utmost importance too. It surprises me when ideas are lifted in the name of "creative inspiration". I think that is weak excuse for thievery of one's intellectual property.
I have personally been working on peace within myself. Maybe everyone should do that. I never did like Roman Polanski, he is creepy. All the money in the world can't change someones intrinsic qualities. He has that "Phil Spector" quality! Ew-so ego-driven.
Love your photo, love Mary Oliver. You too!!! xx
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | 01 October 2009 at 19:36
My sentiments exactly. We have to keep lighting candles in the darkness. xoxo
Posted by: Colette | 01 October 2009 at 18:57
Last night we watched the movie "Quelques jours en septembre." Juliette Binoche's character takes off her glasses to view the world differently. Muted colors, ambiguous scenery, and tricky camera work show a different reality. A very provocative film. I love your photo.
There are so many things that are worrisome: hate mongering, bigotry, idolatry of buffoons who pedal their histrionics as news. So very, very sad and disturbing.
Posted by: Helen | 01 October 2009 at 18:50
Wow. Beautiful photo, Tara! The first line you quote of Mary Oliver is wonderful. Thank you for that. And Bruce Hornsby! Some of my best memories are of seeing him in concert in his hometown; one gig was a solo acoustic piano concert and the other a raucous one on New Year's Eve to usher in 2000. Wonderful artist, wonderful. He has a new CD out now, too! Thanks again!
Posted by: Barbara | 01 October 2009 at 17:17