A Monumental Choice

"A principle is the expression of perfection, and as imperfect beings like us cannot practice perfection, we devise every moment limits of its compromise in practice."
-- Mohandas Gandhi


Perfection is not a state, it is a process. That process is marked by sacrifice for the greater good, no matter what one's individual desires are but what is better for the community, and by living by the virtues of self-suffering, showing empathy, character, and civic responsibility. A flexible branch does not break, yet the strongest brick wall crumbles in an earthquake

Today, the City of Dallas offered Occupy Dallas the opportunity to compromise. They said that they will be willing to let us occupy a lot behind the city hall where we can spread our message with peace, and it is my opinion is that this is a good thing rather than bad. When we demonstrate that we are mature enough of a society to embrace the hallmarks of a civilized society, and that is that compromise creates legitimacy and shows organizational maturity, and that cooler heads can prevail.

Now, I certianly understand and empathize with the viewpoint that we have been oppressed and it is wrong. However, it takes a bigger person to sacrifice ones personal feelings for the benefits of everyone else, especially the children that will live with the consequences of our collective actions. It is better to turn the other cheek, it is better to be the suffering servant, and it is divine to forgive.

On a practical note, what will be the consequences of the historic issue that is to be decided here today. Lets look at potential ramifications of each If we choose to comprimise, we actually have an opportunity to demonstrate that we can do better than the powers that be, that we, the people, know how to take care of the people, and that is a powerful message. We will have the opportunity to demonstrate the ideals we represent, that every person has a voice, and that by allowing us to learn from each other and make the historic decisions about how society should be improved, and then actually live that example. On a simpler note, we will be able to have hygiene facilities  and other amenities that make for a happier, healthier society, both physically and mentally. If we choose to not compromise, we do not know the results of our actions. It is for this reason, cooler heads must prevail.

Friends, we have a chance here, a chance to promote all the lofty ideals we represent. Please, please, please make the right decision. May peace guide you.

None of the abstract concepts comes closer to fulfilled utopia than that of eternal peace.

THEODOR WIESENGRUND ADORNO, Minima Moralia