Finding a Political Answer in a Emotional World
It's really hard for me to be confrontational in a civil situation. I usually (stupidly) put myself in the middle of a problem, trying to find a solution for everyone. I don't know why I try to do this, if its just my genetics, a power-trip, or just a stupid fat guy trying to be nice.
Tonight, I was on the receiving end of an interesting lecture/conversation about a mostly trivial issue in our neighborhood association. As I was walking home, I of course thought of great counterpoints to my faults. I never was one of those kids who could come up with the right thing to say. I always had the great comeback, five minutes after the kid mocking me went home.
I also know that I've never been the popular guy. I know some people will rejoice the day I put up the "For Sale" sign on our front lawn, and maybe after tonight that will happen sooner than later. But I'm here tonight, writing and rewriting a post about a conversation that made me feel like a ten year old all over again. I know I did some things wrong, but I also know that my positions are right. And I also know that people read, and talk, and wonder what the hell is the tubby guy complaining about once again.
I want to write so much more, but internally I keep fighting it off. Deleting something that may be overheated, obtuse, and stupid in the long run. Google has a long memory, and while I want to write, I want to delete more....
I'm just not a guy who thinks a piece of paper should control every single facet of our lives...maybe that's what is wrong with me.
Comments
Surely, you knew I'd take the bait... now let's see if you can set the hook.
One of my favorite quotes from Dietrich Bonhoeffer...
"To understand reality is not the same as to know about outward events. It is to perceive the essential nature of things. The best-informed man is not necessarily the wisest. Indeed there is a danger that precisely in the multiplicity of his knowledge he will lose sight of what is essential. But on the other hand, knowledge of an apparently trivial detail quite often makes it possible to see into the depth of things. And so the wise man will seek to acquire the best possible knowledge about events, but always without becoming dependent upon this knowledge. To recognize the significant in the factual is wisdom."
Blessings!
Posted by: apostle![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.woogieworld.org/nav-commenters.gif)
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October 8, 2008 9:09 PM
And if you didn't....well, I would have been surprised.
I really do like that quote, and it probably captures why I'm so darn good at Jeopardy. :-)
The obscure and mundane fascinate those who find joy outside of their needs or comfort.
Posted by: Brian Wohlgemuth![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.woogieworld.org/nav-commenters.gif)
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October 8, 2008 10:47 PM