This phrase first came to my mind in a therapy session, but since then I have realized that it applies to every aspect of our lives. The first time it came to me, I wanted the therapist to “fix” something, but in that session, I saw that it was up to me and the others involved to solve the issue. The therapist could suggest options or encourage/facilitate dialog, but it was up to us to solve the problem in front of us.
In this current political, economic, social, and media atmosphere, there are many people (sometimes, it feels like EVERYONE) who are calling out problems wherever they turn. Many people are experiencing social and economic problems. Many people look to their local, state and federal governments for help, and those organizations/agencies/administrations all seek to address the problems of towns, cities, states, and the nation. Still – I believe that for almost all problems that occur in our lives, the first step to solving the problem starts with us. In the political realm, it may mean giving up the comfort of armchair quarterbacking the evening news and spending your time and money to support or fight against an issue or candidate. In the economic realm, it may mean having to seek other employment, education, or assistance. In the social realm, maybe the people you associate with are dragging you down, and a change is needed. For many, inaction is the default response to problems.
So, the next time a problem appears in front of you, ask yourself the question – is there something I can do about it? It may be that the answer is no, but the reflection is vitally important. I feel that all of us have agency to take some steps to improve our lives or where we live or our world. Indeed, in the end, it is up to all of us to work together to solve the problems that face us.
💬
Andy