I have been accused of thinking too much, or overthinking. I admit that from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to sleep, my brain is constantly in motion. This is why I am able to write these thoughts every morning – my brain is in constant overdrive, which isn’t as cool as it sounds. I’m not a fast reader, and I am easily distracted when trying to focus on anything with math or science; I leave those superpowers to others. No – my superpower – or, maybe, Kryptonite – is thinking ideas through and coming to a conclusion that is usually controversial (and for some, wrong), but also, I hope, thought-provoking.
Part of the problem I have with the world in general is that it often seems to me that too many people under-think, or don’t think at all. This isn’t about their intelligence or perception or education; this is about shutting down their information receptors. They buy religious doctrine or political siloing without verifying or considering the options. They regurgitate what they have been told without questioning or challenging or doubting. They accuse those who disagree of being as being one-sided as they are. When challenged, they retreat to the safety of their “side”, never asking if there is a better way. Their opinions become substitutes for facts; they even rail against objective fact-checkers. And when I express an idea or fact that does not fit with a person’s perception of what they think I should be saying, I get accused of having lost my way. No – sometimes I am wrong. Sometimes, they are wrong. Much of the time we all need to step back – and think.
As Americans, we have had these moments before. McCarthyism nearly destroyed free speech. The Civil War almost destroyed America – and since it isn’t over, it may accomplish that task yet. Not thinking things through – not asking questions or expressing doubts – not challenging the majority and the minority opinions – all of these can lead to under-thinking. Under-thinking leads to social malaise, which leads to tyranny. Let’s all put our thinking caps on and make the effort. Without it, we all lose.
Prayer – Holy God, You gave us brains to be used. May we all use them for the good of the world. Amen.
Today’s art is “Thinking” by Benjavisa Ruangvaree.