WHY I NOW HAVE A MORE CRITICAL EYE

As we begin a new year, it seems unlikely that we will see an end, let alone a significant turning point, in the COVID-19 pandemic. I hope I’m wrong, but my sense is that the virus is going to be with us for a very long time in some form or another.

I don’t know what I will have learned when the pandemic finally ends, but I do know that it has already taught me to analyze things with a more critical eye.

The action required to pay better attention reminds me of a quote from a character in Harry Nilsson’s film, “The Point!” The Rock Man lived in the Pointless Forest and calmly observed that, “You see what you want to see and you hear what you want to hear.”

He reminds us that only seeing what we want to see or hearing what we want to hear can be a gigantic problem; we all need to do better analyzing the information being force-fed to us every day. In particular, I try not to blindly believe what I think I know just because it makes me more comfortable and doesn’t challenge the story that lives inside my head.

Another way of seeing things with a more critical eye is asking rather than assuming that we know what other people think or believe. So I asked some of my friends what they have learned so far from the pandemic.

One sent me this quote from Einstein about being happy; “A calm and modest life brings more happiness than the pursuit of success combined with constant restlessness.”

Another told me, “Life is short, uncertain and often in the hands of God/nature. Appreciating and respecting the reality that everyone deals with risk differently is far more difficult than it sounds.”

And along that same line was this:

“I’ve been impressed that for all of our knowledge and technology, humanity is still at the mercy of the causes and forces of nature. But, through the unselfish behavior of most and the tireless effort of others, we’ve been able to mitigate fear and disease. Pretty incredible!”

Some focused their lesson on concern for others.

“The fabric of American society is far more fragile than I ever imagined. Many of us who were on solid financial footing before the pandemic hit are incapable of appreciating just how economically difficult the last year has been for those who were already just barely getting by.”

Others gained some insight about character.

“I learned that I am a pretty good judge of character. Those who I had known and trusted supported actions to care for themselves and others. Those whose character I had previously questioned, did not.”

Another was very disappointed in old friends who suddenly seemed to grow angry and hateful at science, logic and empathy. The amount of upheaval brought about by so much chaotic energy challenged them as they tried to find a way to remain in a positive space. It wasn’t always easy.

As one friend noted, “So as yin and yang often shows, this past year has been a real #$@!”

For me, I am really blessed to have such good friends who share their thoughts with me all the time. The promise of life in my heart stays strong because of them and my family. I still have the unshakable belief that the good I see and the kindness I hear is anything but pointless. I’m pretty sure the Rock Man would dig that sentiment.

Frye,