“People may spend their whole lives climbing the ladder of success only to find, once they reach the top, that the ladder is leaning against the wrong wall.” ~ Thomas Merton

As we try to keep some normalcy, day to day, we have the reality of death and loss being ever so present, manifesting in the fear for our health, loved ones, livelihood, and future. Yet, in many conversations I've had recently, I've heard about what is grounding people and being grateful and thankful for basic needs being met, relationships, and for those dedicated to caring for the community and risking their own lives doing so.

For me, climbing the ladder speaks of the disappointment from unfulfilled desires and expectations from choosing an individual pursuit, focused on self-preservation, power, and flattery. Also, the higher the climb requires someone at the bottom holding the ladder in place, keeping the climber safe. The concern is not about achieving success, but more about one being at the top and one left at the bottom. This widening gap and separation, between these two extremes of humanity, is what concerns me. As we move through these unmapped times in our lives, we need strong leaders to speak up for those at the bottom.

Why not you & me?