A citizen is someone who looks after the well-being of society. However, it is a daunting endeavor for me to look after society without first looking after myself. The two go hand in hand. I like to look at myself as having a triad of dimensions (these may not actually exist separately, but for analytical purposes they are helpful to separate): mind, body, and spirit.
Mind:
Am I open to learn new things? Do I pursue learning wholeheartedly? Am I responsible enough to change my mind when I think I’ve been wrong? Am I reading? Am I reading things to compel me to think? Am I reading things that compel me to think more deeply about the society I live in?
For a listing of good books, I like to look at the nominees for the annual National Book Award.
Body:
Am I taking care of my body? Do I eat right? Do I exercise right? How about my mental and emotional health?
Lately my back has been ailing. With the help of medical professionals, I am relearning how to better take care of my back. Helping others is a daunting challenge for me when I’m in significant physical pain.
Spirit:
Am I living for something bigger than myself? Are my actions prompted by a love for others? Do I identify myself with causes and initiatives that promote peace and justice for others?
This is the month people often make resolutions for the new year. I challenge you to resolve to improve yourself. I am. After all, changing ourselves is within our power. If we do this, our democracy will be all the better for it.
Jim Schul 