28-09-2008

Wrong Side of Reno, Rocky Votolato

After rereading some of my posts and talking to a few people, I realize that a few of my posts are condescending towards the reader. That is not my intention. I do not think that the United States are terrible, or the people in it for that matter. The perspective on the outside is different though and it is sometimes hard to articulate the emotions in an appropriate manner. I find myself frustrated with life situations (which we all do…) and the subject of American politics and their influence on my current situation in Costa Rica. When this happens, I tend to rant. I do not want you people thinking that I am too easily persuaded into a certain thought or belief (though it is true that I am terrible with peer pressure and my sense of ‘truth’ varies from situation). It is true that we all have problems (Inside the U.S. as well as outside). One can observe them on many levels, beginning with a two-person relationship to, as I am quick to mention, an international relationship. Everything in between is fun to discuss too, I just haven’t had much on my mind, except for preachers and whatnot.

So, I feel like I avoided explaining all of the details as well as my thoughts toward many topics, but it was necessary to somewhat clarify these “biased” perspectives that keep coming out.

Often, I experience an overwhelming sense of helplessness when it comes to solving the world’s crisis. I’ve learned that the small stuff can be just as significant. My approach is something like this: become aware of injustice (many levels), help others/ be more thoughtful (volunteer somewhere/ write a note!), and try to live a life of simplicity (easier said than done ie too many bikes, but wanting more). I want to find community within my churches, school, and neighborhoods.

Now, think about the last time you spent some time sharing your life with someone. Remember the moment, you can probably recall the scene perfectly, the lighting, aromas, discussions, etc. This moment was rich and part of what the Ticos call ‘Pura Vida’. I call these times “the good stuff” and I’m a pretty big fan of this. Make some time and try and get some good stuff this week. It doesn’t have to be with a spouse (I know this), but yeah, just share yourself a bit this week and cherish it.

As I write, I remember the importance of relationships. Deaths are real, and they are a bummer to ‘deal’ with. Though we wish that they did not exist, or hurt as badly as they do, these are a couple of life’s inevitabilities.

How one responds to these experiences throughout life, depends on many variables, but growing in community eases the pain and enables one to see some glimpse of beauty or joys in life. This is point is crucial, because everyone goes through hard times and needs some reminders of what goodness even is…