"The vast uncertainties about the future provide a useful reminder that although we know the outcomes of earlier human stories, those who lived that history did not. Such awareness can perhaps engender in us a measure of humility, a kind of empathy, and a sense of common humanity with those whose lives we study. However we may differ from our ancestors across time and place, we share with them an immense ignorance about what will happen next" (Strayer, p. 718).
Great point to end on, wouldn't you say? We're making the history of tommorrow today. While largely commonsensical, I think collectively, we lose sight of this. We're as ignorant to what will happen next year as our ancestors were that were actively living during and fighting in the world wars. That's really very profound. I urge you to think about that for a second.
"What we do in this life echoes in eternity." Sound familiar? That was a paraphrase of Proximo in Gladiator. Turns out he's right.
While there's much to be said on the topic, I'm afraid I don't have the concentration to tie it all together right now, as I've just recently finished studying for tonight's exam. I just wanted to make it known that this idea of Strayer's resonates with me, and in the same breath, urge you to reflect on the consequences of your action, and inaction....as well as the relative uncertainty of tommorrow.
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