Do I look fat?

i believe that interpersonal relationships help people to know themselves better. we reveal ourselves, to ourselves, through other people. i think people are attracted to things in other people they see as a reflection of themselves, or what they would like to be. i think it is most important to look deeply within oneself for their own meaning. i believe this to be a vital piece of therapy if not the most vital piece.

it seems so much of american society is finding meaning from the messages society/media dictates to them... ie- i am too fat, i should look this way, go these places, drive this car, success looks like this, etc. all of this has influenced my belief how far out of touch american society is with one another.

the next time you are driving, look around you. you will see people in little bubbles. mercedes bubbles, cell phone bubbles, ipod bubbles, etc. people have become so isolated from each other and from themselves. i realize everyone is looking for meaning but it is worrisome to me because meaning is being commercialized, not individualized.

after the hurricane hit and much of my home town was devastated, it really reset things. having no power, little gasoline, no noise from cars, planes, air conditioners, cell phones, etc. it really made you realize the little things... the warmth of a smile, how we are all ultimately alone but the value of those that care for us, how many people are suffering in the world, how disconnected we all are, how much it means to have someone truly be there for you when you are in need, and most importantly, the value of those that are genuine. (photo credit: chris george)