We’ve given up the right to choose in exchange for free shipping and a money back guarantee. We give them our data and they make chains that fit us better. (From Hand of God, Amazon TV)
To the middle- and upper-class generations in the USA after the end of World War II, there was no concept of shortages. This reached its ultimate expression with the ubiquitous “On Demand.” Anything and everything is a consumable. You are a “consumer” and you are to get what you want ‘on demand.’ What if you don’t like your reality? No problem: virtual reality is there waiting for you on demand.
But the year 2020 brought into focus the serious shortages with no refuge in a virtual reality. There is demand for basic necessities. Food. Shelter. Health. Livelihood. And the demand remains unfilled for so many, no matter how vocal the demand. Where do we go from here?
We need to build our sense of self and of our responsibility to one another, one step at a time. We start by examining our attitudes and migrate towards a peaceful existence within us and among us. Acknowledge the intra-personal and the inter-personal. If you are lucky enough that your basic needs are met, then give a thought to how life should be lived. “On demand” is a mirage being sold to you by corporations whose only goal is to take your money either directly or indirectly by selling the information you willingly give them.
Build slowly. Cultivate patience.
Don’t let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy. (yeah, that’s from a song, but from a darn good one…)
Lucid Intervals: moments of clarity in thought & action
Lucid Interval #3
photo credit: nature.mdc.mo.gov
(originally posted March 17, 2020; revised March 22, 2021)