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Thinking today of isms. Some seem objectively bad but are they all? I kind of think it depends. I tend to see myself as an idealist, and I usually think it is a good thing. Idealism is NOT synonymous with naiveté. Being idealistic does not mean I see the world through rose-colored glasses, but just that I have a vision of how I think the world should be. My problem is that I often disappointed when I see the way the world is compared to how I want it to be. But, if my idealism drives me in my efforts to shape the world around me, then it is good.
Realism - I tend to think of in negative terms. I tend to see realists as lacking vision. They see the problems of the world and resign themselves to it. But, what if, instead of resignation - the realist instead has a clearer vision of the world and can better react to the situation at hand?
Cynicism - I think an idealist can also be a cynic. Especially, if we let our disappointment in the gap between what is and what we believe should be make us bitter. But, healthy cynicism can be a good thing.
I also don't think these three are mutually exclusive. One can have idealism, realism, and cynicism. The issue is how you use it. I think the world needs all three working together to come up with solutions that are practical but which strive for an unattainable ideal - while being questioned by a discerning eye and mind.
But ah- Fascism... do the true fascist of today seem themselves in that light? Some do - maybe, but most do not. Thinking about the creeping rise of fascism in the United States which has been marching hard in recent years. People can get caught up in their vision to the point that they only see it. I do think it is possible for an idealist and a realist to become a fascist without knowing it. Which is why I think my idealism needs the voice of the realist and the cynic -whether an internal or external voice to keep it in check.
Today we featured the Next 4 songs in this week's Featured Friday Playlist. Songs 13-16:
13. "Bury" by Christian Singles
First up, we have the lead track from the first solo release by Rob I. Miller (Mall Walk, Blues Lawyer) - a Bay Area singer-songwriter. The album is called Maybe Another Time and is out now on Mt. St.. Mtn. records. I dig it.
14. "Distraction" by Kevin Burnstein
Next up, we have the lead single from the new album by recent Nashville resident Kevin Burnstein. The album is called Attack Distract Divide, and it is out October 23. This first single - "Distraction" is out now, and it is - as the titles might suggest a song and an album for our time. The song reflects the divided nation at a time when unity was most needed, and the role of leaders and some media and their tactics of distract and divide. Powerful stuff.
15. "Prana Light" by Laraaji
After some heavy truth telling, it is time for some beautiful piano music courtesy of New York City based musician, mystic, and laughter meditation practitioner Laraaji. His album is called Moom Piano - which is his companion to his previously released Sun Piano. Just a lovely piece of music.
16. "Alive Again" by So Are We
And we close out this segment of music with a fantastic song by this duo from Norway. So We Are has been together five years, and they just released their debut full-length album Piece of the Puzzle. This is the lead track, and I was captivated by the vocals of
Guro Vikingstad and the guitar work of Stian Haslie.
Tomorrow - songs 17-20
