"What if everyone in the world knew, everyone else in the world," my 6 year old asked me?
"What an interesting concept," I thought to myself. So, I asked a dear friend what he thought. "Well, life would be pretty boring if there were no new people to meet," he suggested.
"Hmm. Not exactly," I responded. In fact, in my mind, meeting new people is not always the point that is exciting. Hearing new stories and ideas are what is thrilling, right? I mean, if you are away from your children or spouse or best friend for a few days, talking to them about the things they have experienced over the past few days is what is enjoyable, right?
When Stevie asked me the question, the first thing I thought was, "then, no one could steal or harm others in secret." Think about it, instead of stealing, you would simply be forced to ask for what you need, because everyone knows you; there's no getting away with it.
I like the idea because now, when I speak to strangers (a habit passed to me from my mom), some of them hesitate or act as if I am not speaking to them. If they were not exactly strangers, wouldn't they, more than likely, speak back?
If we all knew each other wouldn't we be more prone to assist others and wouldn't we pay closer attention to the signs of someone in trouble?
If everyone knew everyone we might have less awe over movie stars and professional athletes. You would realize that they too are working to earn a living.
If everyone knew everyone, maybe everyone could get a job that they truly enjoyed; doing something they always wanted to do.
If everyone knew everyone there might be less corruption in politics. Think about it, not only would you know Hilary, John and Barack, but with a few phone calls, you could possibly know what their presidential agenda was. In fact, if everyone knew everyone, maybe no one would have voted for Bush.
If everyone knew everyone there might be less racism, sexism and class-ism.
If everyone knew everyone there might be fewer violent crimes and maybe there would be no war.
"What if everyone in the world knew, everyone else in the world?" I love this question. It is the question of a naive 6-year-old yet, I feel it is a brilliant concept. I would love for everyone to know everyone. But, maybe I am missing something. Maybe there would be something wrong with knowing everyone.
What do you think? If everyone knew everyone... What do you think that would mean?
1 comment:
Hey, I speak to strangers too! yeah, I think I already act on the principle that everyone knows everyone. But I think you guys have the right idea. People would have to be nicer. It could get back to your aunt that you weren't so well behaved and she'd call your mother.
Post a Comment