Karl Haendel / …but then again
—

Will I put down my phone? Will I prioritize in-person communication? Will I treat all those that I meet with dignity and respect? Will I assume that everybody is doing their best? Will I remember that we have all known pain? Will I recognize commonality over difference? Will I use empathy as my only defense? Will I accept that the majority do not share my values, and use this lesson to deepen my humility? Will I accept that those I disagree with will make decisions that will impact me and those I care about? Will I pause? Will I pray? Will I hold space for those who are angry? Will I comfort those who are sad? Will I accept that there are things I cannot understand? Will I have gratitude? Will I stay curious? Will I no longer divide the earth into separate nations, but see us all as one people? Will I consider ownership of land or things to be an illusion? Will I seek truths that go beyond border, gender, race or religion? Will I explore places unsullied by division? Will I know that many came before me and many will come after me? Will I come to see the relative brevity of any single being’s time on this planet as a blessing? Will I see light millions of years old in the night sky and allow this to humble me? Will I learn the timeless lessons of the oceans and the trees? Will I listen to music with my eyes closed? Will I run and swim and lift heavy weights? Will I cook for myself and for my loved ones? Will I fly less and buy less? Will I read novels? Will I make art that makes others feel pleasure, feel hope, and feel seen? Will I hug people I care about? Will I ask them to hug me when I need to be held? Will I play with my daughter? Will I heed her laughter and let it bring me peace?