"Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it."

--George Santayana

It's not too hard to find a short list of what has made this year one of the most memorable so far this millenium. More difficult to find, however, is a catalog of what we can learn from it.

So, in the spirit of New Years, here's what I've learned:

I've learned that when you take time to communicate, people sometimes listen and that the more often this happens, the more everyone benefits. So, I do it whenever I can.

I've learned that no matter how often they tell us otherwise, our lives are more valuable than their dollars.

I've learned that shameless liars tend to lie again, even if they were caught red-handed the first time.

I've learned that political autonomy is worthless without economic independence.

I've learned that the pen can be mightier than the sword and that free speech can sometimes cost lives.

I've learned that truth doesn't need laws to protect it from scrutiny or public debate and that freedom thrives in unexpected places.

I've learned that all central bankers are the same, regardless of their name and hairstyle.

I've learned that people who call themselves 'civilized' are capable of the most heinous atrocities imaginable and that apologetic 'pundits', 'intellectuals' and 'statesmen' are always at hand to defend the indefensible.

I've learned that people don't readily accept the truth, and even when they do, it's hard for them to act on it.

But, I've also learned that people do take action when things get bad enough, and if you complain loud enough and often enough, things change.

I've learned that oil is at the heart of most, if not all, of America's conflicts and that in the case of the Middle East, israel is deeply involved.

I've learned that democrats and republicans are two sides of the same pro-zionist, pro-war coin and that most, if not all, will do anything for a buck.

I've learned that to the victor goes all the spoils and that he is the judge, jury, and executioner. But, I've also learned that that does not make it right or just.

I've learned that authority is not imposed from the top down, but is granted from the bottom up. In other words, we may inherit some lousy leaders, but we keep only the ones we deserve.

Finally, and most importantly, I have learned the hard way that I've wasted too much time taking cues from the tube and that if I really want change, I must start with myself.

Let's make it a Happy New Year, everyone - because only we can.

Posted in

• 2006
• determination
• fear
• Hope
• information
• knowledge
• Learning
• Lies
• Media
• New Years
• truth

• qrswave's blog
• Login or register to post comments