Delusion.

protect delusionYou were born in a place on a planet. Where this happened defines your nationality, for better or worse.

This does not mean you should not travel to other parts of the world outside of the resorts and tourist destinations to meet people around the world.

You were born into a culture which shaped how you think. A religion was passed down to you; before you could speak you were surrounded by that culture and religion.

This does not mean it’s the right culture for you, or it’s the right religion for you. This is not even a factory default setting in a human. You are free to choose others, or free to choose none.

You were born into a socioeconomic situation. This will either give you opportunities that those without will call privilege, or will keep you from opportunities through your lack of privilege. There are myths and legends of hard work making you a financial success – and then there’s the story of Sisyphus.

It’s better not to be Sisyphus.

Oh, and you were born a particular shade of humanity – but that too doesn’t define you.

These are some common delusions we propagate from generation to generation.

It’s time to stop. Think. Choose.

The Walls

The walls guide our path,
The walls guide us –
Little solace in the windows
When we are seeking the door
And sometimes, a mirage appears
Our need creates our illusion.

We try to open the door, to fight our fate
Trying to put an end to the debate
The fight was good but the walls have won
The battle is over, the war never done
Eyes closed with consternation
Hiding our eyes from
Accidental reflections.

The walls guide our path,
The walls guide us –
Little solace in the windows
When we are seeking the door
And sometimes, a mirage appears
Our need creates our illusion.

We try to open the door, to fight our fate
Trying to put an end to any debate
The fight was good but the walls have won
The battle is over, the war never done
Eyes closed with consternation
We shield ourselves from
Accidental reflections.

Written in the 1990s.