Humankind
As a child, I imagined the world would be filled with magic when I became an adult. For some reason, I fantasized that all adults were knowledgeable, respectful, and kind to each other. Little did I know that my world was much different than my hopeful admiration for adulthood.
People can be very cruel to each other. People intentionally hurt, kill or break the spirits of others. Often death isn’t the most tragic thing one person can bring to another — in fact, in those horrific situations, death would be a kind release. It’s hard to believe that I once thought our world was much the opposite of its existence. I remain uncertain if society has changed in the years since I was a child or maybe it’s always been this way. I doubt I will ever fully know.
I try to be positive and give a compliment. We must uplift and empower each other — the world has enough challenges without human indecency. It is heartbreaking when you smile at someone, and they put their head down or when you greet someone and look directly past you. I don’t understand why it’s so hard for us to be kind to each other. Would it hurt? Would you feel a burn of agony if you returned a smile?
Imagine a world where humans were as genuine and kind as most dogs. There’s nothing like meeting someone’s dog, and it’s happy to see you. Their excitement and joy of seeing you are pure. There is no acting — just honest, natural emotion. As humans, we don’t need to be that extreme, but all humans can learn from the authentic emotions of humble animals. If you put any thought into it — sadly, humanity can build structures but rarely develop or maintain a fully honest and sincere relationship like our pets.
There are many beautiful souls in the world, kind-hearted and caring people. Painstakingly, there aren’t near enough of them. Certainly not enough to make the whole world a better place — A peaceful unity.
In nature, a food chain distinguishes the creatures’ purpose. Humans fail to believe we are animals in that very circle of life. There shouldn’t be a desire to determine purpose or power amongst ourselves. Humans are simply another group of animals in the big picture. When the last breath leaves any living being, we are all the same — empty. Why does humankind believe it is greater than any creature and more significant than each other?
I am glad to help those who I can and smile at those who look down upon me. I once thought I felt envious of people who had an expensive lifestyle. As I looked closer, I noticed they have struggles, too — different challenges that may seem ridiculous, but they are struggling too. When proper understanding flows throughout all stages of the animal kingdom — that’s when struggles will cease.
When I look into the eyes of the toddler, I see trust and love. I sense their excitement as they take their first steps. I imagine their confidence when praised and hugged for simply moving forward. Why can’t we honor each other for moving forward? For some people, their first step may be going to college, getting a new job, or beginning recovery — we take many first steps every day. Why does it have to seem so out of place to praise and support each other’s first step forward? Everyone wants world peace, hope, and unity, but why doesn’t anyone want to make an effort?
It reminds me of something I once heard — Everyone wants magic, but no one wants to believe it. Maybe someday, not tomorrow or next year, but hopefully, everyone will soon believe in magic.
THE END
Mojha R. MacDowell
Proofread by B. Dean MacDowell & MaryAnn Lindquist
2021
