Declaration of Dependence
The cult of the self, and a demand for "independence" are pervasive amongst a wide-scale of society. These factors are largely driven by marketing practices, carefully-chosen media sound bytes and individual responses to a world that largely places unneeded increases over necessary inclusions. Independence is largely, in my belief, an illusion that should be cast aside for the betterment of the all. Realizing and acting upon this takes great discipline and humility; values that should be at the forefront of who we are and what we do.
We are all, in some way, dependent on each other and the earth we share. Studies have shown that when someone is meditating, those around them have an increased sense of focus and peace. Conversely, when someone has poor control of emotions such as anger and fear, these feelings may very well seep into those around them. Feelings are universal, and should not be overlooked as to their importance in the overall well-being of our world. Share in each others' happiness, offer consolation and support in others' distress.
Economically we are all, for the most part, affected by market trends, consumer habits, financial practices, trade laws, business deals and international policies. Some view acquiring more money as a means of securing their independence, but the very nature of acquiring money requires dependence on a wide variety of people (employees, employers, consumers, just to name a few), who should not be neglected if one expects their financial gains to increase.
The human connection amongst ourselves and our world, sustains the highest ideals of a dignified society. Physical intimacy is important as well. Research has shown that oxytocin, a chemical released by skin to skin contact, strongly increases trust and charity in humans, leading to more engaging and meaningful interactions (1). Other chemicals, like dopamine, associated with socializing and feel-good activities, can help increase motivation (2).
It's often too easy to follow celebrity trends and "reality" shows, which consistently show abandoning others for pursuing narrow personal aims. In an era of economic and environmental uncertainty, an era of eroding social systems, it's essential to realize our inherent interconnectedness. Humility and self-discipline are the latest trends to get behind if we are to advance in the truest sense of the word.
1. http://www.webmd.com/news/20101114/oxytocin-more-than-mere-love-hormone
2.https://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/dopamine
We are all, in some way, dependent on each other and the earth we share. Studies have shown that when someone is meditating, those around them have an increased sense of focus and peace. Conversely, when someone has poor control of emotions such as anger and fear, these feelings may very well seep into those around them. Feelings are universal, and should not be overlooked as to their importance in the overall well-being of our world. Share in each others' happiness, offer consolation and support in others' distress.
Economically we are all, for the most part, affected by market trends, consumer habits, financial practices, trade laws, business deals and international policies. Some view acquiring more money as a means of securing their independence, but the very nature of acquiring money requires dependence on a wide variety of people (employees, employers, consumers, just to name a few), who should not be neglected if one expects their financial gains to increase.
The human connection amongst ourselves and our world, sustains the highest ideals of a dignified society. Physical intimacy is important as well. Research has shown that oxytocin, a chemical released by skin to skin contact, strongly increases trust and charity in humans, leading to more engaging and meaningful interactions (1). Other chemicals, like dopamine, associated with socializing and feel-good activities, can help increase motivation (2).
It's often too easy to follow celebrity trends and "reality" shows, which consistently show abandoning others for pursuing narrow personal aims. In an era of economic and environmental uncertainty, an era of eroding social systems, it's essential to realize our inherent interconnectedness. Humility and self-discipline are the latest trends to get behind if we are to advance in the truest sense of the word.
1. http://www.webmd.com/news/20101114/oxytocin-more-than-mere-love-hormone
2.https://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/dopamine
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