Many of the downtown buildings in San Diego are "wrapped" with advertisements leading up to and during Comic-Con International. Mind you, the city has laws against building-wrap advertisements!
The local news revealed how lucrative this type of advertising is: the hotels and businesses make far more money in advertising Hollywood blockbusters than the city's fines! In addition, the city doesn't enforce this law because it wants the businesses, tourists, and conference attendees to have a good experience of San Diego.
I am reminded of something that happened several years ago. Driving with a younger relative, he made a U-turn in an area where the signage said, "No U-turn." The reply when I looked over: "It's okay until you get caught."
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| Are there certain things you do... no matter what? (Photo: Marriott Marquis and Marina, San Diego - Larry Gardepie) |
I am not placing a value or making a statement about either of these situations. Rather, I find it interesting how we describe our society as "Law and Order" yet choose which rules or laws we will follow... and then rationalize our actions based on our belief systems.
The gap between Espoused and Actual Values is sometimes far apart! We decide individually whether the consequences are worth the risks... no matter the impact on others or society.
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| When do we stand against violence? (Photo: "Comfort Women" Column of Strength, San Francisco - Larry Gardepie) |
There are so many examples in our society where we are inconsistent:
- We teach driver safety... but we are distracted by our mobile devices, and we drive above the speed limit.
- We talk about dignity and respect for each person... but we do not stand against violence in our homes and neighborhoods.
- We agree about the importance of safe environments... but we do not protect our children and vulnerable against crimes.
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| Where do we find beauty and hope? (Photo: Hanging Cranes, San Diego International Airport - Larry Gardepie) |
What happens when our espoused and actual values stay separated? The words (or wraps) we have placed around ourselves are seen for what they actually are: they are only there as outward show. The core of who we are and who we want to become need to be unwrapped! Through questions, dialogue, and listening, we can unwrap what is inside -- our innermost thoughts and desires!
Then, the hard work begins:
- What do we do to support one another?
- How do we work toward an integrated personal life?
- Are we willing to live in relationship with others?
Let's begin this week:
- What inconsistencies do you struggle with?
- How do you experience your Column of Strength?
- Where can I be of help?
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| Larry Gardepie (click on link for website) |
And when, while truly believing in the value of following the law, you choose to disobey for a greater good - for example, civil disobedience.
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