Togetherness In The Time Interplay

Given the interconnectedness of our world and societies today, as evident during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the ramifications of environmental crises, climate change, global conflicts, and the nuclear threat, clinging to the "Us versus Them" perspective might offer temporary benefits for some. However, it fails to encompass the long-term consequences that cannot be contained to safeguard a selected few.

Within the concept of togetherness, action should extend beyond the immediate benefit of those encapsulated within the boundaries of their immediate identity. Instead, empathy should propel us to transcend these boundaries.

During my tenure in office, while advocating for Costa Rica's decarbonization plan, I initially held a fervent belief that decarbonization was a crucial pursuit, a genuine emotional catalyst for action, driven by my desire to secure a better future for my 10-year-old son. Don't misunderstand me—I still hold this belief, but my perspective has shifted.

Within the concept of togetherness, action should extend beyond the immediate benefit of those encapsulated within the boundaries of their immediate identity. Instead, empathy should propel us to transcend these boundaries.

I now perceive it through a different prism. I've come to understand that for other parents, who also cherish their children deeply, decarbonization might seem like a threat to their child's livelihood, particularly in contexts and countries heavily reliant on fossil fuels without a clear roadmap for transitioning.

So, what is the solution? In the short and medium term, a clash between the interests of exploiting and phasing out fossil fuels seems inevitable. However, in the grander scheme, we all share a common interest: ensuring a world that not only survives but thrives for the next generation. While the "Us versus Them" mindset often magnifies differences, we also have the capacity to adopt the broader framework of "I am because we are." The challenge of transitioning away from fossil fuels and developing viable alternatives isn't solely the responsibility of a specific group—it necessitates collaborative, transformative solutions that lead to win-win partnerships benefiting both people and the planet.

Certain political choices, however polarizing or confrontational they may be, often offer an emotional attraction and reward. For some, it's about feeling an emotional redemption or a form of protest by supporting these options. These votes might not yield economic advantages, but they do offer emotional compensation.

Despite the challenges that may surface, I firmly believe that engaging in dialogue and fostering cultural and human exchanges is crucial to do so with empathy and without compromising core principles.

Our endeavors should extend towards not only striving to reduce material inequality worldwide and financing and executing the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda, or reducing national and local inequality gaps, but also to consider the symbolic well-being of individuals. This involves promoting respect and dignity for all.

Despite the challenges that may surface, I firmly believe that engaging in dialogue and fostering cultural and human exchanges is crucial to do so with empathy and without compromising core principles.

Stories and cultural exchanges, both within and between countries, can serve as pivotal drivers for understanding. For building more cohesive societies and a harmonious global landscape. This approach aids in addressing the pressing common agenda for the future.

As we navigate the intricate dance between past, present, and future, we can follow the advice of the timeless wisdom of unity and togetherness. The aspiration of a world where voices are heard, and stories are valued, comparably as material wellbeing is being valued in this world.

In a world that is confusing, and in times when the hope for the future appears elusive, I find in these concepts not only consolation, but a point of departure for understanding, change and action.