Saying capitalism needs to be replaced does not make you a communist. Summonists are realists and humanists. They understand that capitalism is simply too destructive to continue. It should have been clear by now that money can only provide a temporary relief to financial and other crises. Billions are being invested in propping up the capitalist system.
The overwhelming majority of people – all over the world – are increasingly becoming “collateral damage” of the way this world is run. When those who run it think methods, theories, principles, strategies and the like are normal when they are not, we can only be damaged or injured.
It’s incredible that we all had to be caught up in a very abnormal situation first to really realize that. But very little has changed to make sure that normal doesn’t return. It should not return as it was so outrageously abnormal.
A group of young Africans reflect on how and why Africa is as it is today and how it could be changed. Africa is full of potential, but to really develop it to the benefit of all Africans and the rest of the world, a new kind of politics and economics will have to be introduced. Today, corruption, poverty, modern colonization and lack of sufficient and honest support from the richer countries prevent Africa from being what it could be. Vital does have hope things will change for the better soon.
Chile is having presidential elections on December 19. This country hit the headlines a few years ago as social unrest turned into violence for several weeks. Huge crowds protested against the government and the lack of policies to tackle poverty and other social injustices. The protests finally led to political reforms and a New Constitution. Will the new president end the decades of neo-liberalism that led to huge contrasts between rich and poor?
Christmas 2021 will be different. No big parties in most countries. Christmas is a time to reflect. Maybe we can reflect a bit more this year? What is Christmas? For most of us, it is the time to meet family. For many of us, it is a time to buy presents. To have a special dinner or supper. For some of us, it is a time to reflect.
Our society is losing more and more of its humanity or truly human content. Everything is done for the “insensitive” money, that is gradually taking control of everything. Everything is judged in terms of its monetary value. This is dehumanizing our society and its people. This trend must be reverted.
It’s been a while since we’ve seen each other. I wanted so much to hug you or kiss you. To share experiences and ideas. To do things together, to talk, to laugh… The lockdown and other measures have taken their toll on spontaneity. Anxiety and uncertainty have never been far away.
Western observers are sent to many countries world-wide to check whether elections are held fairly and openly. Why not send observers to less developed countries to check whether the western companies active there give the local communities a fair share of the cake? Or a fair deal?
What would you like for Christmas? What do you need most? What would you like to give to others? When we have plenty, it is difficult to choose. When we have little, the choice is easier.
Investing billions in infrastructure and equipment that can benefit a few – privileged – earthlings, while doing little about the misery and poverty so many millions of people around the globe have to suffer, is not how Humanity can save Earth and its inhabitants. Even the Moon has sent some thoughts about this and about mistreating Nature.
Faith is often a factor influencing or determining election results. In quite some countries, Jesus and his teachings are often a factor playing their part in politics and other fields. But, if Jesus were alive today, what would he as a peace activist think of the present world and the way politicians, business leaders and people in general treat their fellow citizens and Nature? What do people believing in him or anyone caring for a better world for all think?
