Depending on which news channels we watch or which newsfeeds show up on our Facebook pages we receive only part of any news story—specifically, what a certain group (or the algorithm) wants us to know or believe. Because of this, some people live in an alternate reality from what is true and should be right in front of our faces. We can’t make sound decisions if we rely on only one source of information or believe everything someone—or anyone—says. Our society is on a perilous path.

It is disheartening to realize that many people live in a perceived reality based on fear and hearsay. (I don’t believe truth is subjective. Facts can be researched. Actions speak for themselves.)

I am not a political commentator. I don’t think this is all about politics. Sure, politicians stir the pot—as do certain news outlets. It comes down to what we choose to believe about other people and how we choose to act. We are the arbiters of our own thoughts and actions.

There are racists, misogynists, and groups who hate anyone who does not believe or look like they do. These groups work to spread their hate and ideas to as many people as possible.

There are people who want to limit the rights of others—and essentially disregard the Constitution and the safeguards established by our Founding Fathers. Factions pit “us” against “them” through false narratives.

We can decide to act with love and respect for all humanity. We do not have to believe that life is a zero-sum game.

Equity and Protection for All

We live in a beautiful world with resources sufficient for everyone—but that reality rarely makes the headlines. Many groups work for justice, love, and equity for all people. Most people would agree that we should love one another. I believe we become a better society when we lift everyone up to have a better life.

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We have the money, the power, the medical understanding, the scientific know-how, the love and the community to produce a kind of human paradise. But we are led by the least among us—the least intelligent, the least noble, the least visionary.

— Terence McKenna (1946-2000) American philosopher, ethnobotanist, lecturer, and author

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When I think of the word “visionary,” I see people who plan the future with both imagination and compassion. A visionary is someone who sees beyond the common and the ordinary. They are positive and hopeful. They focus on the big picture and long-term impact—working to create a sustainable and better future for everyone.

Sustainable and Better Future

I believe that human, social, economic, and environmental sustainability is possible. It would require us to choose caring and sensitivity over greed and power. As a society we would need to work together for the common good. After all, this is not a game where whoever has the most wins. We all lose when humanity surrenders its ability for empathy and love.

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We have a chance every day to choose to love and lift each other. Yet it seems at every turn we empower the divisive and the cruel. I am heartsick.

— Angela Kaset, Songwriter, teacher, and performer

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I am heartsick, too. All the cruelty and hatred spewed forth in the media and public rhetoric make it difficult to focus on beauty, art, creativity, and the improvement of life for everyone.

Every day I ask myself: “Why is it so hard for people to want the best for everyone—no exceptions?” I don’t know the answer.

Our society is on a perilous path, we can choose how we respond individually and as humankind. A better future begins with a single act of compassion—one we choose, again and again, day after day—as we strive to make life better for everyone.