Enlightenment Mindset in a Postmodernism world
Critical Race Theory is arguably the most debated topic in western society at this moment. It’s a complex issue, however, a somewhat simplistic viewpoint comes down to two perspectives; one is acknowledging the faults in our nation’s history of slavery, and its impact on the social and economic development of western society. Proponents argue that historically America has only discussed a water downed version of the issue. The other perspective is that we have always strived to be better, and in order to be better, you can teach the horrors of slavery without demonizing those that were not there at the time it existed. Though we have faults, the opportunities that America offers is what have made us a destination for those fleeing societies still living in oppression and fear for over a century.
The Age of Enlightenment has given way to postmodernism, and the idea that there are no absolutes, but rather merely opinions. Although the 17th and 18th centuries brought about many ideologies currently under attack, such as capitalism and nationalism, it was also the bedrock of recognizing church should be separated from state. That art and culture should be enjoyed by the masses, not just the affluent. And recognizing slavery was morally wrong. It’s impossible to fully understand postmodernisms rise in society, though a strong argument can be made that indoctrination through higher education, and the counter culture of the 1960’s have shaped postmodernisms momentum. Ironically, the right to speak freely was never questioned by 60’s activists, a stark reversal of what many of today’s millennials believe in. There appears to be no middle ground, no achieving consensus in differences of values. Now more than ever it’s inherently important to stand strong in your convictions, and develop an enlightened mindset .
A person’s mindset will shape how they navigate through an ever changing and chaotic world. Though many rightfully fear the end of basic freedoms, such as speech, religion and the right to decide what is best for your own health, the positive out of all this is that we do have more control over this than we might realize. The challenge will be making decisions that are uncomfortable, and deciding who should be part of your life. This is not about only associating with those who agree with you. Life would be a very uninteresting journey if we did. Fundamentally we should be bound together against hate. Opinions on political and social issues should be respected, but this concept is becoming more and more blurred. It is difficult to state your intentions when you are called a racist because you are against defunding the police. But I would argue that those who identify as conservative have given up much in their attempt to find consensus. Yes, there are extremists, but just as they are extremists in all areas of life, from religion to politics, the majority of us can live and work alongside those that we might disagree with. The question is how much more can we surrender. One year ago you were silenced and demonized if you dare question the origin of COVID-19. It went so far that any mention of it on social media was censored. One year later, it is no longer taboo. Media and tech companies have decided that there should only be a few voices dictating the narrative. Censoring of COVID origins was lifted, only after there was an open mind to its possibility.
The idea that America might now be a country in which information is controlled and sanitized seems surreal. And it should be. The change in attitudes from giving someone the right to speak even if you disagree has given way to controlling conversations based off the narcissistic notion that only a certain few realize what is best for all of us.
In order to effectively navigate through this world, it is important that we take care of ourselves. Not politically, but physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Faith– It’s much easier to surrender one’s faith than it is to defend and preserve it. Read God’s word daily, it will guide you through this very trying time. Don’t just go through the motions of your faith, but learn to live it, and never be afraid to share it. What we are seeing now has been predicted, and the true test of faith will be whether or not we have the courage to maintain it.
Patriotism– Being devoted to a set of ideals that has freed the world from tyranny are traits we should be proud of. But we have reached a pinnacle in society where some regard patriotism as evil, racist, and outdated. Societies crumble when its citizens lack any sense of pride. Believe in the nation you live in, and work to improve it.
Free enterprise– It’s difficult to comprehend what the United States, and the world for that matter, would be like if government controlled what human beings could invent and produce. Right now, it is easy to view the conveniences we have as entitlements. The hardship has already been endured by past generations. We are the beneficiaries. We have the right to own a business, and government should have minimal influence on how we can manage it.
The Right to Health and Wellness– Doctor’s are not in control of all aspects of our health. We have that responsibility. Nutrition is nature’s medicine, and the remedy to control many ailments. Physical activity is a natural anti depressant, and its healing effects on the body are unmatched. Proper sleep, along with supplementation will help us develop a positive outlook on life. Breath and focus on what you do have control of, not what you don’t.
There is much more that is needed in order to develop a 21st century mindset. Building on the above will help strengthen and prepare it for life’s obstacles.
Until next time
JPN