A Lesson From Papa: Why We Lift Each Other Up
A Lesson From Papa: Why We Lift Each Other Up
When I sat down with my therapist, Jennifer, she gave me a simple assignment or at least, it sounded simple. She told me to name three things I like about myself. She even took writing off the table, since that one was a given. But that left me staring at the wall for a bit, wondering what I could honestly say.
Eventually, I realized that what I like about myself isn’t something I built alone. It’s something that runs deeper something Papa planted in me long before I knew to call it a strength.
Papa always told me, “You shouldn’t have to pick yourself up by your bootstraps when your neighbor’s standing right there beside you.” He’d say, “All it takes is for one person to reach down, help lift you up, and then you do the same for the next person. Before long, the whole world’s standing on even ground.” That stayed with me.
I’ve always believed people should be seen for their compassion, not their wealth. I treat everyone with kindness and dignity, regardless of how they’ve treated me, because I believe that’s the only way things ever get better. And maybe that’s part of what I like about myself my refusal to give up on decency.
Some people call me a socialist for saying things like this. But I just believe the government should work for the people, not the other way around. Everyone deserves healthcare, food, and a fair shot at survival. If we can afford war, we can afford to care for our neighbors. The world already produces enough food to feed everyone, and there are enough houses for every person without a home. But greed keeps those doors closed, and that is what truly breaks my heart.
I once heard someone say, “Capitalism without socialism is Marxism, and socialism without capitalism is communism.” Most people argue about that, but to me, it just means this: balance. You need enough freedom for people to dream and create, and enough compassion to make sure no one gets left behind.
So when Jennifer asked me what I like about myself, maybe it’s this I still believe in that balance. I still believe we’re meant to lift each other up, not step over one another to climb higher. And I believe Papa was right. The world doesn’t need to be fixed with force, just with hands that are willing to help.
If this helped you, you can join my Quiet Fighter newsletter for gentle updates. You can also visit the shop to support the work.
Comments
Post a Comment