The distress is world wide

[Adam Blatner]

Dear John, of course, your point (see the subject line) is well-taken. I wrote the 
previous email as the 2nd debate between the candidates for the U. S. Presidency was 
finishing, so I was thinking along national lines regarding the choice our nation is 
facing. (I have some comments on this on my blog, too.)
         But I noted to my wife on looking at a newspaper that a number of countries were 
reeling from this economic crisis with even higher percentage points losses in their stock 
markets, so you're right.

       I do want to say, though, feeling defensive about our country, that a large number 
of people are (and have been) in opposition to the current administration and its 
associations. If a heartening change is not forthcoming, please note that many people are 
working hard to combat darker forces in order to change things.

      I live in a region in which conservative sentiment is strong, and though there are 
many who seek change, there are many who cling to old slogans.
                    ... now for a related issue, opening to your and others' thoughts 
here:

It's trying, because I play with so many of these folks in many roles---the community 
chorus, the fitness center work-out groups, the square dance or other activities, etc..

      It brings up a fascinating predicament: How vigorous should I announce my 
preferences and or arguments when the likelihood is that it will make everyone feel most 
uncomfortable but for sure it won't change minds.
             Having lunch with my mother-in-law, she notes the same place in her residence 
complex of some 400 people. People seem to agree to avoid certain controversial themes.

             As I imagine trying to set up more "honest" encounters, I imagine the 
problems: What if many if not most people really are rather uncomfortable about having to 
really think about their opinions and would respond with anger if challenged?  And would 
that anger generate anything useful?

               So there's a sociometric conundrum for you.

   Anyway, thanks for your comment!   Warmly, Adam


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "John Barton" <jbarton at aapt.net.au>
To: "Adam Blatner" <adam at blatner.com>
Sent: Tuesday, October 07, 2008 9:55 PM
Subject: The distress is world wide


> Dear Adam,
>
> Your comment "in our country" jarred a little in your last grouptalk
> posting.      The economic events of the last while, while maybe
> originating in USA (they say), are affecting a large proportion of
> the world just as much as they affect the USA.
>
>
> I'm sure your words were unintentional in their effect on non-
> americans - and I am equally sure I am being hypersensitive to
> American assumptions of being the centre of the universe.    So
> please receive this as a gentle and friendly nudge.
>
> With love,
>
> John
>
> PS I made a typing error which caused me to see how close "universe"
> is to "u nervous".       Freud rides again.  J
>