Reflections from abroad…

Not much has changed, but nice to have a fresh perspective

I’ve been out of the country for the last several weeks and probably not so remarkably, little has changed in the macro world of economic stress, political turmoil, or surprisingly that it will get better “eventually.” And while the majority in this country continues to be optimistic that there is movement toward the better, the journey might be longer than first anticipated. Fair enough.

Not necessarily the case in the micro world of public relations and accelerated communications, however. Even a few short weeks can and has seen even more of a rush to embrace new technologies and communication forms, ala Twitter, Facebook, et. al. And while I find it ironic that these new forms of staying in touch and hoped for influence are being touted in a time when the biggest business story is the saving of an old rust-belt manufacturing industry wrapped around 100 year-old technology, I understand the need, if not always the importance, of instant communication even of the trivial…and will address it in future blog posts. (Sorry… 322 characters…way beyond my limit.)

This particular post however is devoted to short notes of reflection on an amazing trip half way around the world among people, who while certainly dependent on the global economy, approach life from quite different perspectives.

• Natural selection isn’t just a theory, it’s a fact…and it’s natural, and ok.
• Self-sustainability is relative, but achievable.
• All of us should travel and experience other cultures at every opportunity…and at the very least should encourage our children to do so, early and often. I recommend as a high schoolgraduation present…a backpack, a journal, and one-way ticket overseas, any direction.
• All politics are tribal by circumstance and personal by nature.
• Contributing does not mean giving money nor proselytizing…it’s listening and understanding and if appropriate, teaching.
• Friendship is the most inexpensive yet expansive gift any of us can share…here or abroad.

Next week, back to the alliterate and trivial tworld of tweets, twitter, and why what you’re doing right now, can actually be important.