“Some men see things as they are, and ask why. I dream of things that never were, and ask why not.” ~ Robert Francis Kennedy
Fifty years ago we lost a great dreamer when Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed. He had become an asker of the Big Questions. ‘Why’ and ‘Why Not’ tug at us to resist obedience.Businesses and corporations generally don’t like these questions unless they specifically direct an investigation which might benefit the organization. Governments recoil from the questions and punish them if they can.Religions tend to answer the inquiries with doctrine and theology that demand blind faith. ‘Why’ is threatening because it gets to the heart of motives. And when motives are tested the fabric of an institution is threatened. ‘Why Not’ demands change and action. They would all rather we just settle for ‘How’.
"To ask, 'How do you do it?' is already starting off on the wrong foot. When reaching for the stars, there does not have to be a 'how' if there is a big enough 'why'.” ~ Criss Jami
When the ‘Why’ and ‘Why Not’ cooperate and collaborate all of the ‘how’s’ will be answered. New ways of thinking are born. We begin to understand that opposing concepts and beliefs are not a threat, but challenges for deepening and growth.Obedience might be important for parents who are trying to protect a toddler. But once we are able to walk under our own steam, the questions of ‘Why’ and ‘Why Not’ become the two most empowering elements of personal evolution. Compliance and conformity only lead us to submissiveness.There were ugly and broken times in the life of Bobby Kennedy. But when he was transformed by ‘Why’ and ‘Why Not’, he evolved into a beacon of change for all those who struggle with hopelessness.He taught us that if we keep asking those Big Questions dreams can become reality.
Robert Kenneth Jones is an innovator in the treatment of addiction and childhood abuse.
In a career spanning over four decades, his work helping people recover from childhood abuse and addiction has earned him the respect of his peers.
His blog, An Elephant for Breakfast, testifies to the power of the human spirit to overcome the worst of life’s difficulties. We encourage you to visit and share this rich source of healing, inspiration and meditation.
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Bob Jones’ blog An Elephant for Breakfast