Understanding the Incomprehensible

This morning, I found myself searching for inspiration for this week's article when a beloved comic strip featuring Calvin and Hobbes appeared on my Facebook feed. Created by Bill Watterson, this iconic comic graced newspapers from 1985 to 1995. In one memorable panel, Calvin ponders, "I suppose it will all make sense when we grow up," to which Hobbes replies, "No doubt." How I wish that were true, Calvin.

At 64, having experienced significant historical events like the Vietnam War, the assassinations of JFK, RFK, and MLK, the Civil Rights Movement, the Kent State Massacre, and the police bombing of the MOVE complex in Philadelphia, I find myself bewildered by society's indifference to the troubling events occurring daily around us.

It makes little sense that the so-called ‘pro-life’ movement prioritizes the lives of unborn babies over those of living children who face starvation, abuse, and danger in the very places they should feel secure: their homes and schools.

It’s perplexing that lawmakers, regardless of their gender, believe they have the authority to dictate what individuals with uteruses can or cannot do with their bodies.

Further, the pervasive homophobia and transphobia—labeled inadequately—drive politicians to propose laws that penalize individuals for simply being who they are.

The societal preoccupation with the intimate lives of others, including who they choose to love, is equally baffling. Likewise, it's bewildering to see individuals disparaged for wearing clothing associated with another gender for personal or entertainment reasons, despite this practice being a long-standing tradition in theater and film.

Additionally, the interpretation of the Second Amendment as a blanket right to possess any weapon capable of mass destruction is troubling. The trite phrase "thoughts and prayers" following yet another tragic mass shooting raises questions: what will it take for those with the power to effect real change to act? How many lives must be lost before the NRA's grip on our country loosens? If thoughts and prayers were sufficient, would we witness such tragedies in places of worship?

What defies logic is that, after the destructive actions of the former president, so many still support him and would consider voting for him again.

The irony is not lost on me that those who advocate for law enforcement also participated in the January 6th insurrection against it.

Equally nonsensical is the behavior of individuals who, while professing to honor the flag, wield it as a weapon during violent protests.

The current trend of banning books deemed objectionable by a vocal minority is perplexing; banning often leads to increased demand.

Moreover, the ongoing discourse surrounding Brittney Griner, where some insist on labeling her incorrectly, raises further questions. Griner's legal issues echo those of many individuals, and the idea that her gender identity should be a point of contention is troubling. Her peaceful protest against injustice was a patriotic act, not an affront to the nation.

The belief that worth is determined by skin color is both disgusting and nonsensical.

The effort to sanitize history to spare the feelings of those whose ancestors benefited from slavery is equally irrational.

The fear of children encountering certain narratives in literature, leading to bans, illustrates a desperate need to control knowledge and discussion.

The desperate clinging to power by some over marginalized communities is a deeply flawed and irrational stance.

The irony of a faith built on love and peace being weaponized is striking.

Finally, the denial of climate change and its existential threat to our future underscores a collective failure to recognize our shared responsibility for this planet. We breathe the same air and rely on the same water sources.

I hope for a world where my grandchildren, now aged three and one, will find clarity as they grow. Perhaps, by the time Dean and Lucy come of age, the world will finally make sense.

The first video titled, "You actually don't grow up until someone is more important than you," by Jordan Peterson explores the concept of maturity through sacrifice and selflessness. Peterson emphasizes that true growth occurs when we prioritize the needs and well-being of others over our own desires.

The second video, "TIME TO GROW UP! Jordan Peterson's Life Advice Will Change Your Future (MUST WATCH)," offers practical wisdom on navigating adulthood's complexities. Peterson provides insights on responsibility, personal growth, and the importance of facing life's challenges head-on.

About the Author

Edie Weinstein, MSW, LSW, is a vibrant and creative journalist, motivational speaker, licensed social worker, interfaith minister, editor, radio host, BLISS coach, event producer, and certified Laughter Yoga Leader. She is also the author of "The Bliss Mistress Guide To Transforming The Ordinary Into The Extraordinary" and co-author of "Embraced By the Divine: The Emerging Woman’s Gateway to Power, Passion and Purpose." Edie has contributed to various anthologies and personal development books, interviewing notable figures such as Ram Dass, Wayne Dyer, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A self-proclaimed Opti-mystic, she sees the world through a lens of possibility and writes for numerous platforms, including The Huffington Post and Psych Central. Edie founded Hug Mobsters Armed With Love, which organizes free hugs events both spontaneously and on schedule. Visit her at www.opti-mystical.com.