These losses, in turn, reduce our security and stability in the face of change. It's interesting how many of those who have made the greatest conceptual contributions in science have been people who have changed disciplines, thereby bringing in fresh perspectives that could not be seen by the homogeneous group of discipline-bound scientists. Sometimes we procrastinate, thinking excessively before we act, waiting for others, feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and helpless. It is sometimes important to be willing to act our way into clearer thinking, liberating ourselves and others along the way. We can never know in co-evolutionary processes the best solution, but we can transcend perfectionism, fear, and the unknown through intentional acts that reflect our aliveness and values.
Action can be indirect, subtle, and anonymous, or gregarious, forthright, and attention getting.
Humor This is serious business. When we take appropriate risks, we usually learn, gain new wondrous insights and appreciations, and are free to exercise our humor when things don't go exactly as planned. This cycle of learning is the key to genuine development and change, and it includes both pain and joy. So much has been destroyed. I have cast my lot with those who age after age, with no extraordinary power, reconstitute the world.