What have we got? Seemingly not much. We've got each other, and this Web thing. We've also got what Noam Chomsky refers to as "the other super power" - world public opinion. Even through the dark glass we Americans view our world, it's finally becoming obvious that the U.S. government is broken.
And we have something else, less easy to describe but no less important. It's what Wendell Berry and others describe as "eternal values." Life, love, freedom, compassion, truth, a sense of connection - very Godlike qualities - they are on our side as well. And this inherent rightness (as opposed to righteousness) will eventually win the day. How much we see of it sort of depends on where we look.
The New Paradigm
The new paradigm is already alive. It's exemplified in companies like Costco and Honda that consider employees, communities and our ecologies in their business decisions. It's typified by the growth of organics and socially responsible investment funds. It's being played out in communities that are reclaiming their rights and throwing off oppressive corporate practices. It's in this awesome new tool we call The Web.
It's in Venezuela with Hugo Chavez and the popular movement that is transforming that country. It's in Nepal. It's in Montenegro. It's trying (in more ways than one) in East Timor.
And it can take hold in the U.S. starting this November. The planet is poised for us to take on new leadership role. One where we embrace a new cultural modality, based on integrity and sustainability. One where we reverse the madness our government is wreaking on the world.
But the "other super power" better get busy. We have to raise the veil from our jaded eyes, and see the new world for ourselves. Then we have to kick some political ass to get honest, progressive leaders in places of government. And finally, we have to remind ourselves while we witness this contest - it's a fresh wind that blows against the Empire.
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