I often wonder what it would have been like to live during a different era.  Perhaps the early 1900’s when people had less as far as “wealth” - but also developed a different perspective.  Instead of this murky world of comparison and relative (and not ultimate) success, it seems like things were more simple even if they weren’t so “advanced” as we think we are today.

Or maybe my problem is not eras but countries.  You need not travel backwards in time to achieve this different perspective, just head overseas.  My time in Israel was enough to see the gap in perspective and priority.  We were tourists in a strange land filled with historical sites.  They were people in their home land living their lives.  We were probably nothing more than flies.  Like rich politicians who spend 3 hours in a warzone or refugee camp.  We visit, we have compassion, and then we fly home to our warm beds and safety.

I think it’s probably a cop-out to want an “all around me” change like a time flash back or country move, so that I’m forced to change my perspectives and priorities.  I know I’m capable of doing that with dicipline, submission and ultimately humility, but often large changes seem easier.  It’s why people make resolutions on New Year’s and not March 11th or June 5th.  It’s a simple or seemingly simpler starting point.  I suppose the quest should be to run after that bigger perspective at all times and be contented with slowly moving and not feel guilty for my place in this world.  As an American, it seems to be getting more difficult to do.