Participation

As the new year begins, we inevitably consider changes we can make in order to improve our lives in the 12 months that follow.

One strategy I’d like to introduce is one of ‘participation’.

If we choose, we can consciously elect to participate in something…or not participate in something.

The subjects of such contemplation can run from something as simple as gossip (let’s opt not to participate in that) to something as lofty as service to our community (we can choose how fully and in what manner to participate in that).

I suppose that the digital equivalent of this process would be to ‘swipe left’ or ‘swipe right’ when we’re presented with a choice. As I’ve never been on a dating app, I wouldn’t know which direction would indicate that someone would like to ‘participate’ with someone else, but you get the idea.

Our choices can be spontaneous or considered over a period of time. In either case, they should be definitive and, if possible, permanent. We can choose quite decisively not to participate in hatred, bigotry, consumerism, waste (time/money/environmental), even apathy and complaining.

In making this choice about participating or not participating in something, we don’t have to be perfect. If we find ourselves involved with something that we decided we weren’t going to participate in, we can self-correct without fear of eternal damnation.

The more ingrained the habit we want to change, the longer it may take and the more effort it may require. So what? We improve. Progress is rarely a linear process. It’s just a preferred process.

So as we venture into a new year, a new opportunity to evolve, let’s be comfortable saying, “You know, I don’t participate in that.” Whatever that may be.

Conversely, let’s endeavor to commit fully to those few things that we agree to do. Let us actively and fully participate in our passions, professionals, and relationships.

No half measures this year. Either way.

  • BGT

11 thoughts on “Participation

  1. The Evolution in Feminism under the “Green Transition”
    “Empower Her, Protect Earth”
    This slogan emphasizes the connection between empowering young women and taking action to protect the environment. It suggests that by being environmentally conscious, young women can play a vital role in preserving Mother Nature for future generations.
    “Her Future, Her Earth, Her Responsibility”
    This slogan places the responsibility of caring for the Earth squarely on the shoulders of young women. It encourages them to take an active role in shaping the future of the planet they will inherit.
    “Green Girls, Bright Futures”
    A play on words that combines the color green with the idea of empowered girls creating a brighter future. It suggests that environmental awareness and action can lead to a more sustainable and vibrant world.
    “EcoQueens: Nurturing Nature, Empowering Change”
    This slogan combines the concepts of being eco-friendly with the empowerment of young women. It reinforces the idea that nurturing nature is a key aspect of creating positive change.
    “Girls for Green: Sustain the Dream”
    This slogan conveys the message that girls can actively contribute to sustaining the dream of a healthy and thriving planet. It encourages them to embrace environmentally friendly practices as part of their daily lives.
    “SHEroes for Sustainability”
    By combining “she” with “heroes,” this slogan celebrates young women as heroes in the fight against climate change. It encourages them to take on an active role in promoting sustainability.
    “Climate Queens: Reigning in Change”
    This slogan uses the imagery of queens to represent the power and influence that young women can have in making positive changes for the climate. It suggests that they have the ability to lead the way in environmental stewardship.

    https://open.spotify.com/track/4q83spgP5cU0MXMqrYsxau?si=94c2e7ae32d9437c

  2. Not sure if this is the right place to ask this question but it is related to the old money guide to marriage so here goes nothing… I’m in need of advice/ perspective. I recently got engaged in July after being in a 5 year relationship, the relationship had it’s ups and down but I had no intention of leaving my fiancee, and the pressure of proposing from her did start to weigh on me so I popped the question 6 months ago and she said yes. Throughout the relationship however I was physically assaulted/ abused multiple times(punched, hit, scratched, clawed etc). I always forgave and moved on.. Last month my fiancee hit me in the face while driving for simply not “shutting up” and I think this was the last straw. My fiancee does love me very much to the point my sister thinks she’s obsessed with me, however I feel very guilty calling off the engagement and breaking up because she is supposed to move in and start a new job very soon and it’s embarrassing to end so quickly. Also if I break up with her I truly feel she will fall into a deep depression and be suicidal. I also feel if I was single I would really understand what I want in a women more now than ever before (I’m 29). I actually have an old friend from high school who I would love to shoot my shoot with and really embodies what I’m looking for in a relationship, but I can’t tell if these are actually feelings or I’m just over come with emotions. I really don’t know what to think, feel or do. What do you guys advice as OM Guys/Gayls? I would love to hear your prospective and sorry if this is the wrong place to ask this type of question.

    1. Please get out while you can. Abuse, whether physical or emotional, will only continue when “permission” is granted by means of further commitment i.e. marriage. Further, your wellbeing isn’t her priority but it should be yours. I would advise that you speak out to someone that you trust, get help and leave the relationship now, while you can.

    2. Violence should’ve been a deal breaker the first time around.
      It’s not too late to run for the hills yet.

    3. Hi Derrick,
      My apologies for the late reply. Please get out of that relationship as quickly and as permanently as you can. It is not healthy. More than that, it is dangerous. There are plenty of resources to assist and support you, both online and locally. Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you need more help.
      I’m sorry to hear this. I hope for the best. BGT

    4. Get out of that relationship. She is physically abusing you, and she is manipulating you in staying with threats of suicide. Obsession is not love, nor is it healthy. Get out, and give yourself time to heal before pursuing anyone else.

    5. It will never get better. I’m only grateful she has shown herself prior to the wedding. It is a lot less complicated if you leave her now than dealing with a messy, contentious divorce.

      Men so rarely come forward when they are being abused. I think you’re very brave for seeking out help.

      Byron you are a good person to offer Derrick extra support in this time.

      Derrick you are still so young. You deserve a partner who brings you uncomplicated joy. This woman needs help you cannot provide. Staying with her due to guilt is not good for you. If she’s truly suicidal staying in a relationship won’t prevent it; only therapy can help her. It is not your responsibility to keep her alive; that is not in your control. If she’s using or has used this to keep you with her, that is also abusive and she’s doing it to control you. Her actions are not loving.

      I am not especially religious, but I am reminded of my own wedding and when our reverend read from 1 Corinthians 13: Love is patient, love is kind.

      Is she patient? Is she kind?

      Doesn’t sound like it.

      It sounds as though your sister has some idea. Please talk to her. She might be able to help you.

      Change your locks before you break up with your fiancée.

    6. Make sure you get out, Derrick! If you have children, there is a high probability that the cycle of abuse will continue for generations. Let us know!

  3. Derrick, as Byron said, exit the relationship as quickly as possible. Don’t look back, move on permanently. NO ONE should tolerate any form of physical violence in a relationship. Physical violence in a relationship always escalates, or, and far worse, you retaliate with physical violence and are haunted by your actions. You will find someone else who will love you and you will love.

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