Let it go - let it happen

By Will Crois

Special to the Express

Interesting concept: How do you respond when you cannot solve a problem?

Today, you would be considered almost indifferent if you did not respond with some degree of amazement, concern, or even disgust when confronted with the things happening around us.

Which brings me to a current trend: If you cannot solve the problem or help solve it, let it go. Let it happen.

At first glance, some may think that is the way to preserve one's sanity. And there is certainly wisdom in recognizing that we cannot control everything. But with a little thought, there is a danger in taking that philosophy too far.

When you hear of tragedy, wars, hatred, disease, injustice,and even the seemingly smaller matters, such as the changing of names that carry historical significance, if you continually tell yourself that you are not affected because you cannot change the outcome, you can slowly slip into apathy.

History has shown us where apathy can lead.

Consider Germany under Hitler. Neighbors, friends, and even family members sometimes turned a blind eye as people in their own communities were dragged from their homes and murdered. Not everyone was responsible for creating the horror, but indifference allowed it to continue.

There is always something you can do.

You can vote. You can speak. You can write. You can become involved with a group, whether political, charitable, spiritual, or even a meditation community. You can help a neighbor. You can listen. You can educate yourself. You can simply refuse to become numb.

You don't have to solve the world's problems to make a difference.

Perhaps the better philosophy is not “Let it go. Let it happen,” but:

Let go of what you cannot control—but never let go of your humanity.

Keep your sanity. Protect your peace. But when and where you can, do something.

Because apathy may preserve your comfort, but compassion preserves our humanity.