by N. O. Tate

Created on: January 14, 2008   Last Updated: February 23, 2008

I Write. Not because I want to prove myself valuable to others. Not because I want to attest myself a viable human being. I write because I long to align myself with those whose concern for humanity is resolute, having been evidenced through action and deed. Their example has provided me with the understanding that we, as fellow beings, are amazingly close, yet remain sadly distant from one another.

The fathom that separates us is accentuated by common idioms. Because we have preconceived notions regarding one another's conduct, many of us feel unable to interact fully with our fellow beings, or to express our inner selves to others. Via the efforts of concerned and compassionate others, I have accepted my fallibilities. By doing so, I have become aware that the similarities between myself and my neighbor are ever-present.

Consider the acquaintance who wrongly perceives a gesture of friendship. Their inability to recognize the offering of support and fervent well-wishes, lies within their personal history. They cling to the mistaken belief that people's attempts toward friendship are precluded by ulterior motives. This premise has been reinforced by repetitive negative interactions, throughout their lives. Thus, we are obliged, with all haste and purpose, to provide these fellows with concrete evidence that they should believe otherwise.

Although valuable, it is not enough in the case of these poor souls, to tell them that "The Secret" is to wish for and to expect greater things. Rather, it is imperative that we continually communicate the fact that people still exist who are determined to provide support. We can do this via our own actions, and by expressing appreciation for the efforts and services of others.

I too, viewed the world critically during my youth. Today, I have come to abhor the remarks I made regarding agencies, government, corporations or friends. I often went on verbal tirades about what I viewed wrongful attitudes or treatment. I was, in effect, reinforcing my neighbor's preconceived notion that the world was an unfriendly and predatory place.

In spite of the fact that I later saw folk in a better lightin spite of the fact that my view modified because the maligned party provided a viable response, (sometimes moments after the discouraged friend left my presence), I had, while they were at my side, bespoken ills that I never attempted to amend.

At that time, I did not consider it my responsibility to clear the liabled party's name when my assessment

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