Isn’t It Odd?

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These frequent and untethered thoughts are most always metaphorical and associated with contemporary events. Events that my reticular activating system (RAS) is trying to make meaningful. RAS in neuropsychology describes how humans manage the flood of inputs constantly received and interpreted by a part of the brain called the epithalamus. To avoid sensory chaos, the brain prioritizes these inputs – some are ignored because they are of no immediate importance, like the droning sound of distant traffic. Conversely, a nearby horn blast is given rapt attention. Inputs not so easily categorized end up in the RAS inbox awaiting a proper accounting. So, what is with this inbox item labeled, “Isn’t It Odd?”

The relationship of beliefs to behavior is the stuff of basic psychology

I have a few ideas based on recent headlines about riotous protests, wildings, gang shootings, flash-mob lootings, destruction of private property, and attacks on law enforcement trying to restore order.

Interestingly, those reporting or interpreting this mayhem often link such behaviors to unequal application of the law and other forms of discrimination – not that crimes are not occurring, just that some individuals or groups are allegedly paying an unequal price. But such claims rarely seem credible and statistical data does little to support this accounting so what gives? And where are the objective analyses of belief patterns that perpetrators and their sympathizers rely upon to justify lawlessness?

The relationship of beliefs to behavior is the stuff of basic psychology. People tend to reflect their beliefs in the attitudes and behaviors they exhibit. Positive and constructive beliefs will yield positive and constructive results - the negative opposite is also demonstrable. What is taught/learned is expressed. This is not brain surgery so why can’t society put the cause of modern-day dysfunction where it belongs – on beliefs and those doing the programing? Is this the very definition of willful myopia – isn’t it odd?

Here are my thoughts on this curious conundrum put to verse.

Belief to behavior as compass to a course,
Perhaps here a clue to a causative force?

Computers are programed to calculate a sum,
beliefs are nurtured for a desired outcome.

If “we can” is believed we most often can do,
if “cannot” is embraced that is also quite true.

When “cannot” captures mind and belief,
every destination is sadness and grief.

Start with “we can” and teach it just so,
and soon is discovered success for the tow.

Conviction applied is wind in the sail.
A tool to grasp, a guide for the trail.

Answers are knowable, available, and free.
Why the confusion, why can’t we see?

Isn’t it odd?

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