What are we here for?

So starting with a quote that just came by me this morning, as follows, by Cornel West:

We've forgotten that a rich life consists fundamentally of serving others, trying to leave the world a little better than you found it.  We need the courage to question the powers that be, the courage to be impatient with evil and patient with people, the courage to fight for social justice. In many instances we will be stepping out on nothing, and just hoping to land on something.  But that's the struggle. To live is to wrestle with despair, yet never allow despair to have the last word.


In my humble opinion, a rich life does not consist of material wealth and possessions, although that is what our society and many others in the world today seem to value and seek.  And it appears that their seeking is at the expense of many disadvantaged folks in these societies.  There is no acknowledgment that people on this earth are entitled to equal access to food, shelter, education, jobs, and respect.


A rich life consists, first, of warm loving relationships and care between folks.  Close relationships, casual relationships, and respect for all.  A loving understanding of yourself and self-respect for who you are.  A close relationship with your God.  We can not be of service for others unless we are at peace with who we are; unless we work to be the best person we can; and can look at ourselves in the mirror and not be ashamed of how we have acted and how we have used the resources that we do have.


We have to discover what we can do to serve others, and start doing it.  This action is very important by all of us regular folks, as it seems that those in political positions only act when it is in their self-interest or that of those who provide large sums of campaign donations.


Education is at the ground floor.  An good education for all, no matter what their economic background is.  This is right, and it is the only way people, and our country, can survive.  Education for little ones and continuing education for all.  The world is changing and so should the skills and knowledge of everyone in the workforce.  This is a basis in providing jobs for folks.  And these have to be family supporting jobs.


Funding for education must be increased and School Boards and teachers unions must be held accountable.  They must be encouraged to work together for the well being of the children.  Folks can volunteer to help out at the local community schools, but the keys are in the hands of professional administrators and teachers.  


That's enough for now.  Do you have any comments?  Ideas?


I will write more later as this topic is huge.


Take care.