UNFORTUNATE EVENT
If you keep up with the local rag (IRL or online) may have you come across
an article titled “Man Injured in Downtown Assault” [Kevin Elliot: 09AUG2010]. I happened upon the article late Thursday evening/early Friday morning during a break from an all night work session. I was immediately frustrated and felt compelled to comment, anticipating an onslaught of “I-told-you-so” remarks.
ORIGINS OF THE FIRE
Since Google announced their Fiber for Communities Project in early February, I’ve been involved with Think Big Topeka – a grassroots organization initially formed to focus support efforts regarding Topeka’s nomination for Google’s 1G Internet. Through my work with the group I have become aware of, follow, and in some cases involved with, other groups and organizations that have a similar underlying mission to Think Big Topeka’s – accentuating the positives of the Topeka community and improving the cultural zeitgeist.
THEY’D PROTEST THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST
Concurrently, as is the nature of the beast, through my work with Think Big Topeka, I’ve also become aware of many lesser unorganized groups intent – directly and indirectly – on bashing the positive work of their neighbor Topekans. Many of these online “Nancys” and gossiping naysayers do so post hoc, basing their dissension on old statistics, previous efforts, inconclusive facts and false perceptions…all from the comfort zone, neglecting to step out from behind the computer.
CHECK YO-SELF BE FO YOU WRECK YO-SELF
When faced with such illogical negativity, it may be easy to snap back or otherwise ignore your value set. In situations as the one above (and similar situations), it is important to take time for self-introspection. The self-introspection process is specific to each individual, but I’ll share some steps I utilize when I process:
- Evaluate the Negativity – There may be a grain of truth found therein. If so, acknowledge and address it.
- Challenge and Re-evaluate Bias – Don’t let your bias get in they way of effectively dealing with bias.
- Develop Action Plan – How are you going to handle the situation?
- Logically Evaluate your Action Plan – Will your action plan be effective? Does your action plan fall within the realm of your value set?
Your process may be longer, may be shorter, hopefully you get the point.
My fellow citizens in “new Topeka,” don’t become distraught over, what can feel like, a barrage of oppositional negativity. Logically process through these situations, action in a manner that lies within your value set, and manifest encouragement – for YOU continue to self-actualize.
