An acute observation, Will. There are two conflicting threads in the American story: The lonely hero and the strength of family & friends. These are epitomized by the Rambo movies on one hand, and The Wizard of Oz and It's a Wonderful Life on the other. These visions of what is "America" have been absorbed into our subconscious and translated into our political life. Yet, as you observed, we are troop animals, dependent on the group for our welfare. We all hope for a supportive network of family and friends to sustain us, and sometimes we're lucky enough to have one. If not, we may be searching to fill that need all of our lives. Then we can be vulnerable to cults and false prophets who promise much, but deliver little. As John Donne said:
"No man is an island, entire onto himself." It's good to be reminded of that fact.
I grew up with the beliefs that asking for help showed weakness as well as if you can’t do it right the first time don’t do it. Harsh! Consequently, it’s very difficult for me to ask for help. Luckily, I have wonderful friends who offer help just when I need it the most. I have always been much more comfortable helping others.
I do believe we are stronger together. I find it easier to give help (very satisfying) than asking for help. But fortunately I have some great friends who make it easier. Sorry, I do not relate to the movies you mentioned- at all. Maybe I should try to re-watch them with that slant in mind. I enjoy your posts!
I love when people ask me for help and I love helping them. However I have yet to learn how to ask for help myself. Maybe one day. Because I do believe that we are stronger together.
I am great at asking you for help with giving me a massage
hahah you really are the Michael Jordan of asking for a back scratch!
This is the best and only reason to watch The Fast and Furious. Well, the building hopping in Dubai works too. Great read, Will👍🏻
An acute observation, Will. There are two conflicting threads in the American story: The lonely hero and the strength of family & friends. These are epitomized by the Rambo movies on one hand, and The Wizard of Oz and It's a Wonderful Life on the other. These visions of what is "America" have been absorbed into our subconscious and translated into our political life. Yet, as you observed, we are troop animals, dependent on the group for our welfare. We all hope for a supportive network of family and friends to sustain us, and sometimes we're lucky enough to have one. If not, we may be searching to fill that need all of our lives. Then we can be vulnerable to cults and false prophets who promise much, but deliver little. As John Donne said:
"No man is an island, entire onto himself." It's good to be reminded of that fact.
I grew up with the beliefs that asking for help showed weakness as well as if you can’t do it right the first time don’t do it. Harsh! Consequently, it’s very difficult for me to ask for help. Luckily, I have wonderful friends who offer help just when I need it the most. I have always been much more comfortable helping others.
Most of us had help growing up, from parents, grandparents, friends, etc. Trying or needing or having by circumstance to do it alone is two strikes.
I do believe we are stronger together. I find it easier to give help (very satisfying) than asking for help. But fortunately I have some great friends who make it easier. Sorry, I do not relate to the movies you mentioned- at all. Maybe I should try to re-watch them with that slant in mind. I enjoy your posts!
I love when people ask me for help and I love helping them. However I have yet to learn how to ask for help myself. Maybe one day. Because I do believe that we are stronger together.