Changing the Energy

Realized my last rantings may have been a shade pessimistic. If entropy is hard coded into our physics and systems, then isn't our task that much more Sisyphean?

Then I heard the below conversation between Adam Grant and Sarah Silverman.

Energy can't be created or destroyed - but it can be changed.

Silverman's prime example of changing energy involved engaging online trolls with kindness and understanding. That got me thinking about how much work I can do in brief interactions and touch points with others.

And if I do more of it, can I feel a little bit more like we're working together or part of some shared system where our actions (and the way we treat each other) matter.

Where are the interactions where I (and by "I" I mean "you") can change the energy? I am aware that most of my examples involve being in or near cars. But think about it: how many of those do you experience in a day, and would you characterize them as being positive?

Let 'Em In.

Letting someone merge into your lane is generous, and a selfless act.

However, this courtesy need not extend to someone who sped up to the exact point where a lane ends and then insists on breaking in. These drivers should be summarily executed.

Also, If you are one of those drivers who pretends not to see someone trying to get your attention, we need to reinstate use of the stocks for you.

The Wave

When someone is generous enough to let you in, acknowledge that act of kindness by waving. It costs nothing.

Something's Got to Give.

We have many four-way stops in these parts. Even though the rules of the road make clear the order of movement, often everyone is paralyzed. Giving someone the thumbs-up to go (perhaps with a pointing motion) comes across much friendlier than the frustrated "Go!", incomprehensible gesticulation, or leaning on the horn.

Paying it Forward.

If there is one lesson I want to leave my children (other than being kind and always following the money) it would be to get out in the intersection if you're going to turn left. I have lost three aggregate years from people failing to pull forward and causing countless cars to suffer through an unnecessary red light.

Time to Go

If you're at your car, and you see someone is waiting for your spot, maybe pull out rather than talking casually for the next 10 minutes. I also wonder whether drivers go through a 25-point checklist before starting the car, but some of that sentiment could be my own impatience.

I See You.

This one might encompass all of these and more. Becoming aware of other people and the effect our actions have on one another is difficult but rewarding.

Going one step further, connecting with others might be one cure for what's ailing us. Perhaps Timothy Snyder put it best:

Now I have previously cited Ambrose Bierce's observation that politeness is the "most acceptable hypocrisy." But that applies when intention doesn't match the act- and the only energy involved is not a change for the better.

Pretty sure I've quoted this here before, but if we're fools in life, then a happy fool, I would rather be . . .

And Together . . .

To the takedown police: I owned the "Paid in Full" tape (although I am having some difficulty putting my hands on it just now). And I saw Eric B. & Rakim in concert during the Summer of 1988.