People, organizations, nations and societies move and change only when one of two conditions exist. Condition one is that in which where we currently find ourselves is too unpleasant to remain and moving away is the only option we recognize; and condition two is when we have an idea or picture of where we'd like to be that is so compelling that we can't not move towards it. Absent one of these conditions nothing changes. And, the most typical is the first condition. However, the two are not equal in terms of the quality of the movement created.
Moving because where we are is too unpleasant only requires that we leave. The direction is irrelevant as long as it is away from what we fear or no longer want. The problems inherent in this strategy are numerous indeed - and not the least of these is that we will likely look up when the discomfort is gone and discover that we are no closer to a fulfilling future than we were when we started.
Moving because we are so compelled by the promise contained in the ideal represented by a possible future is different - it has direction. It calls on and to the best in us. It is inclusive and aspirational. It is enabling and it is this quality that others may confuse with courage.
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