The idea of a better tomorrow is very appealing. To get there, however, will take action, preferably today. What action are you taking?
To some extent, we understand the power we have when it comes to shaping the future. We know that if we want to have a flourishing garden, we need to plant the seeds and water them first.
This illustrates that the action we take today — planting the seeds — leads to what we want tomorrow — a garden.
So, with that in mind, what metaphorical seeds do you want to plant and nourish? What do you hope to eventually harvest and share with your community?
There is a concept known as the butterfly effect: a butterfly flapping its wings in Brazil can lead to a hurricane half a world away. That is, a small change in initial conditions can lead to a massive impact at a different place and later time.
This idea is often used in time-travel stories. Stepping out of a time machine, a story’s protagonist accidentally steps on an insect, then finds the future altered beyond recognition.
But the same idea can work in the present. One small action now, properly positioned, can have deep and lasting impacts on what comes next.
So, with that in mind, what can you do in this direction? What is the better future you want, and what are the steps today to be taken to achieve it?
Related questions: How much does your past determine your future? Will the future be better than the present? Should we try to predict the future? How do you set priorities?
On Tuesday, I will meet with the chair of an important committee in the Minnesota legislature. The purpose will be to talk with them about a few items my organization will advocate for during the next legislative session and run an idea past them about how we would like to frame the long-term goals for tenant-landlord law from a state perspective.
Today, I will do a little prep work for that meeting. I will fashion a tight agenda, as I only get 20 minutes with the legislator. I may practice some of what I’d like to say to ensure I am comfortable with the agenda and allow enough time for the legislator to ask questions or even commit to some of our asks. Getting a legislator to engage is crucial, so I want to be as prepared as possible.
Today I am spreading the word about two events I’m involved with this week. Tomorrow, phone banking and postcard writing for my choice for President and VP. Wednesday I’m attending an informational picketing session regarding the October closing of a homeless shelter in downtown Minneapolis. (due to lack of funds to repair their dilapidated building). Anyone wanting more information, I’d appreciate a replay.
correction: reply not replay.