Are we?

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”–George Santayana, The Life of Reason, 1905.

History has a purpose. Accurate history, the good and the bad, the heart-wrenching painful, and the proud moments of the best in humanity, all of it provides valuable guidance.

I believe we should be cautious about removing and rewriting history to fit today’s understandings. Rather, maybe we should engage fully in conversations, making sure we make the knowledge available, all of it, so what worked would be known and improved and what didn’t would not be repeated.

This country is in a state of change, hopefully we will emerge in tact and stronger together from the struggles. We are within 4 months of a major election. Do yourself a favor, step away from the “Anybody but” mentality and find out what the candidates stand for. Read up on them, send them emails for clarification if needed. Find out how they plan to carry out or pay for their campaign promises. Find out how they plan to work with others, who may or may not be of the same party affiliation, to solve problems and work through issues.

Accountability is important. Certainly for the authorities and government, but for ourselves too. Are we helping solve the problems without creating new ones? Are we aware of our personal impacts and responsibilities? We aren’t toddlers in a huge daycare where the government serves as our babysitters. Are we doing the best we can with everything we’re facing? Are we accountable for our choices? Are we collectively remembering the lessons of the past?

Are we?