A concept is emerging in my consciousness. In one way it energizes me–gives
me hope. In another way it embarrasses me–like how have I missed this for so long.
And further, as I consider the state of things in my environment, this awareness
is somewhat disturbing…frightening. As with all of my recent “revelations,” it
evokes a mixed emotional response. Due to time constraints–imposed by my
current marginally enlightened priorities–this post will constitute a sort of
“first installment.”

The concept centers on responsible personal application of information. Or,
how to use the things I learn. It occurs to me that there are two main ways to
apply information. I can take the things I learn and make rational use of them
for my own benefit, or I can take the things I learn and “recycle” them in
some irrational hope that they will “help” other people. Two things came to
mind as I wrote the previous sentence (actually more than just two, but we’ll
limit expression for now). First, if more people were to take information (extrinsic,
“other-awareness”) and used it as a rationally applied tool for self-development
(intrinsic, self-awareness) “the world” would be a much better place. I also
thought of a line from the 12-step program traditions that encourages us to
share our experiences, strengths, and hopes with others.

To avoid excessive rambling, the point that settled in on me this morning is
that I need to take the information that comes to me and use it to make wise
choices about the other people and situations that I grant significance. If I
want change that I can believe in, it must be change that works for me.
I do not respect you…you do not respect me…we are not respecting Self…when
we use information to change others. The buzzword usage of the phrase
“change you can believe in” is a hoax–nothing more than propaganda. It is
used by people who want me to not think…to not see.

We are inundated with information. The deluge is guaranteed to sweep me
away if I do not take measures to limit its effects on me. So much is made
available to know that it becomes nearly impossible to actually grasp
any of it. What are we doing to ourselves? What are we doing to our children?

I will take steps to apply these principles in my experiences today.

I didn’t realize the wisdom in this old song…