Autocracy v. Democracy
(aka Oppression v. Freedom)

Rarely in human history has the world been so visibly divided along two very different motivations and motivators. One group is driven by dishonesty, greed, fear, dishonor, and hate in the pursuit of riches; while the other is driven by goodwill, courage, perseverance, honor, and integrity in the pursuit of justice. Like night and day, you know the practitioners by their deeds, their activities, and their trustworthiness. Still, it is tricky to nail down precisely who fits into which group. Oppressors come in all sizes, shapes, and outward pursuits, and so do Freedom lovers. Neither race, nor religion, nor ethnicity identifies them; titles are not much help; education and public adulation do not help; while prayer, speaking skills , and good looks are virtually no help at all.

The differences are a matter of what is in each person’s heart, soul, moral compass, and their adherence to the better angels in their lives. But it is a sure bet that love does not drive an autocrat; nor does authentic patriotism. They are followers, not doers; takers, not makers; as long as they can see, feel taste, or smell the things that make life easier for them. They want a life of ease without putting forth the effort. History is a relic of the past. It is today that matters, and what awaits them on the horizon of their wants that drive them.

The drive for excellence, knowledge, understanding, compassion, kindness, charity, and forgiveness are near the top of the list of attributes of those who seek the freedom to do, to become, and to live worthy lives. They are driven by consideration for the rights of others, for a chance to find their place in the sun. You know you are in the presence of someone from this group because he/she makes you feel better about yourself, your personal dignity, and your right to life is just as purposeful as theirs.

Politics is an artifact of convenience. Left and right are labels to be demonized. And so they are. In the US, the Republican Party of today is not the Republican Party led by Abraham Lincoln. It is insulting to his honor and to his place in history to suggest otherwise. Indeed, the states that elected Lincoln are nearly identical with the states that elected Barack Obama.

It is gratifying to see who is supporting Ukraine and its residents compared to who is supporting Putin and his Russian puppets. Both groups separate themselves into the two groups that fit each profile. Not perfectly, mainly because one group is also opportunistic and will wear the label that is mostly likely to win. You know them by the color of the streak down their backs. It’s yellow.