Credo (this I believe)

Although individual “this I believe” essays on NPR are thought-provoking, collectively they are repetitive and unsurprising. Sure, we all want to make the world a better place. The interesting differences come in how we imagine this better place and how we think it can be attained. These differences would be stark if the essayists were drawn from a wider range. The essays are from people in "all walks of life". Let’s have a Nazi or an anarchist state their beliefs (and not just a libertarian or a smooth right winger posing as a patriot). I think they can be skilled at presenting an attractive, compelling or at least coherent and consistent world views. Internal consistency alone is persuasive. I suppose it might be challenging to get a real Nazi to say what they think for the benefit of National “Pinko” Radio listeners.

What do I believe? I believe in the importance of asking questions. But why do I believe this is important? Is it because it was rewarded during a formative stage in my life or because it was internally rewarding? "Internally rewarding" sounds at least potentially noble but it probably translates into "a behavior that causes the release of some endogenous, morphine-like substance". I don't claim any universal higher value in being open. I think it's largely a consequence of self doubt and awarness of error. How nice an assured self confidence - the unexamined life - would be! Or would it...?

I’m learning too slowly the profound truth underlying the casual aphorisms "it takes all kinds" or “different strokes for different folks”. Before, I thought it was just a tolerant attitude towards differences. Now, I think it reflects the amazing range of perception experienced by people and animals. I’ve been deeply moved by things that leave my friends unmoved and vice versa. The Bible story of Mary and Martha is a good start for appreciating differences but the brilliant truths (if not Truth) within the Bible were too layered for me. One “bright line” or guiding principle is my “gut reaction”. However, some reactions are learned prejudices and should be unlearned. Others should be listened to. I long ago gave up trying to “appreciate” a live symphony orchestra but I just love to hear opera, especially live, or Broadway show tunes, or a country music song with a good story. Why?

Tgrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr [<- typed by Sarah, who is more panther than "Tiger"!]