The Dalai Lama recently stated, "I feel optimistic about the future because humanity seems to be growing more mature."
He specifically mentions the increasing importance of inner values, the study of the mind and emotions, as well as the desire for peace, and concern for the environment. What signs are there that the Dalai Lama is correct in his observations?
A very important piece of growing in maturity is accepting accountability for one's actions, especially one's mistakes, and even the mistakes of one's ancestors. A mature attitude allows one to look objectively at the world and its problems, and ask, "What can I do to make this situation better?"
It is significant to note that many countries are taking responsibility for the horrendous crimes they committed over the last centuries. Germany, of course, has taken full responsibility for the Holocaust and has made reparations. They have not stopped there, however. They have also accepted complicity for their role in the Armenian Genocide, which happened with their military advisors present in the Ottoman Empire. Germany is also currently in talks with its former colony of Namibia over the genocide of the Herero and Nama peoples, and it is plausible that Germany will apologize to other victims of its colonial policies in the not-so-distant future.
Denmark has apologized to Ghana for its role in the slave trade and has gone as far as accepting responsibility for the role its Vikings played in pillaging Ireland. Though this may seem insignificant to many, the Danes have clearly established a global precedent.
Norway, Sweden, Finland and Greenland have taken accountability and begun making reparations for their treatment of Indigenous peoples.
A number of other countries, most notably New Zealand, Australia and Canada, have also apologized to their Indigenous peoples for their efforts to assimilate and even destroy their populations. Though all have stopped short of referring to their crimes as genocidal, they are clearly moving in the right direction.
There is something to be said about accepting accountability, even though one is not personally responsible for the crimes committed. It lifts a veil of secrecy and opens a space for open and honest dialogue. We move away from finger pointing and welcome transparency. Acknowledging that wrong has been done makes it easier to forgive, and forgiveness is a powerful step in the long walk to healing.
As a Canadian educator in a school with a significant Indigenous population, I play an important role in the healing process. I have never been made to feel blame for the residential school system, but I am deeply saddened by it. I see the impact of intergenerational trauma every day, knowing that this is the result from years of abuse toward past generations.
A mature attitude does not judge, but tries to understand and asks how things can be improved. One is also able to embrace compassion, have patience, celebrate small victories and acknowledge the need for continual growth in knowledge and wisdom. It is clear that I must embrace humility and gratitude as I walk forward with and learn from the Indigenous people I live and work with.
Taking a step back from our small piece of the planet, we see that we are not alone and there is indeed reason to be optimistic. There is much to do, and we have so much to learn from each other, but we are moving forward.
The standard has been established. As we become more enlightened, it will become impossible to ignore the crimes of our ancestors, or even the impact of our own negative attitudes. It becomes clear that healing our world and healing ourselves are one in the same.
There truly is reason to feel optimistic about the future of humanity, but that future depends on us.
Gerry Chidiac is a champion for social enlightenment, inspiring others to find their greatness in making the world a better place. For more of his writings, go to www.gerrychidiac.com
