We often hear comments about someone “pulling themselves up by the boots straps”. Politically, we hear it from one side more than another. I, personally, believe that everyone should have the opportunity to pull himself or herself “up by the boots straps”. Unfortunately, it not as easily done as said.
Politically, I think both sides fail. Merely, saying that someone should pull himself “up by the boots straps” accomplishes little unless the individual has the will and the means—i.e., “boot straps” (or, perhaps, boots). On the other hand (or side of the political spectrum), merely putting shoes on the man does not help in the long-run. We have to provide access to boots and sew on the straps by which they can be pulled on.
We cannot expect someone to help himself, if he lacks the education, the finances, and the social support to succeed. Likewise, he is never free to help himself, if he is never challenged with the opportunity.
Too often, one is robbed of his or her potential because of circumstances. Many have the boots but lack the will or the ability to pull them on. (This is increasingly the case in our society of helicopter parenting and over-protectionism.) Many are able to “pull themselves up by the boots straps”, but they lack the boots. Few lack the boots and the ability to put them on for themselves. Many of these few are denied the opportunity because others judge them as “incapable”.
I believe society can—and must—be more “well-centered”. We have to understand the role that everyone plays in the Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, and Social well-being of society. I believe in equity over equality. Equality sees that everyone has a pair of boots. Equity sees that everyone is wearing a pair.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow. (Help others do the same.)
Carpe momento!