August 27, 2015
I heard the author of Borders, Fences and Walls, Elisabeth Vallet, speaking on NPR today. It struck a cord because I have been noticing all the very high fences being built around some very small houses in my neighborhood here in wine country. Having grown up in neighborhoods where we knew all our neighbors and walked from home to home across wide and open spaces, I’m feeling a bit uncomfortable. I also know that when one is hidden behind a high fence, one can feel isolated and actually lack the care and comfort of others. If I have a client hidden behind a tall fence, I have to ask about a lack of nourishment.
When we think of building walls around countries, I go numb, then want to speak up – loudly. The host of the show asked if these global walls are really just a joke. He asked if they can really keep people out. The answer from the author was the one I wanted to hear. The fences will not keep people out. That is the history of fences and walls. At their best, the walls are simply symbols of power and maintaining an identity.
And, I’m reminded of Professor’s words. You cannot stop the flow of chi. It will find its way. You have to work with it and manage it well. I think peace is a world without borders, and I have faith we can manage it well.
The book is almost $100 on Amazon. If someone has a copy and would like to share, please let me know. This is a book I want to read!
Submitted by Katherine