a place called safe

The last few weeks there have been several events  that have given me lots to think about.

Sometimes, it just takes a little longer to receive inspiration. 

But actually, I'm quite dismayed by what's been happening. For starters, there's the ongoing crisis in Syria (which has been placed in the background of world news), the Ukrainian uprising and Russia 'annexing' the Crimea...and elections in Bavaria. 

For some reason, there are still plenty of people in this world who can't claim to live in a safe place. To have a home that is protected. To grow a family living in peace and prosperity...enjoying life and receiving opportunities to improve it. And to be surrounded by a community that supports them and values their contribution.

I believe it comes down to the leaders who govern countries. Too often, individuals who come into power do not seek guidance. They do not build a versatile team that brings different gifts to the table. More often than not, leaders themselves are insecure, troubled by paranoia...obsessed with their power. The tyrannical (and ruthless) leader has survived into the 21st century. He is very much alive! And he causes his own people to suffer, because his pride forbids him to let go. 

Revolutions MUST follow a higher purpose. Just because a handful of people are upset with a situation, they cannot simply overthrow the leadership of the system they are part of. There needs to be a consensus on the situation. Nowadays, there are many uprisings that cause more problems for a country or community than trying to go down the diplomatic route. Of course, if diplomacy fails, one has to search for other ways to get the required attention. 

Yet too often, these are improvised revolutions. They embrace the chaos...the anarchy...and the resulting violence. Who are the real victims? The innocent man, woman and child that merely want a happy and safe life. 

In our own lives, we have to consider the effects of us lashing out at other people. On a daily basis, we have the choice to create our own individual revolutions. A revolution is to change one's lifestyle...or one's approach to a certain subject. 

For one, in Germany we are given the right to vote for our leaders. And this is a huge responsibility. We aren't forced to vote. If there's no leader you trust, then why vote? It only makes sense if you truly believe that somebody will help bring about positive changes in your country/city/community. If you look closely, though, you realize that leaders employ many 'tricks' to influence your vote. One has to be cautious and evaluate the candidates, their ideas, plans etc. HOWEVER, a man's word has lost its power and credibility. How often have you been disappointed by somebody promising you something...and not following through. 

Therefore, the true revolution of a country starts at the root of the smallest community - the family. A family is a miniature version of a community. It is here where values, behaviour and other human qualities are taught and learned. If the family fails to establish and raise children that obey a certain set of principles, then they will move into the next community - school - and negatively impact others around them. It sounds simple, but that's because I think it is! 

Nonetheless, it is a vicious circle. If the family isn't a safe haven for the individual - a place where he/she feels love and support - then it comes down to another community to restore the individual's health. We are obligated to reach out to those 'damaged' people and help them become restored. It is in our best interest to work on a healthy community. We profit from that general joy within the individual. We profit from encouragement. We profit from BUILDING, not destroying. 

This world is a critical place, filled with plenty of judgement. So let's focus on the qualities that really matter and spur productive revolutions - within ourselves and the people around us. Like I said, it is only in our best interest to belong to a healthy community...to live in a place called safe!