The weather today in St. Louis is remarkable. 3:39 p.m. here, sitting on the steps outside the factory with a nice breeze blowing across my neck and the dying leaves in the tree above me dancing, and making their own musical accompaniment as the dry leaves rustle against one another. Across the street, some small creature chirps, a sweet singing, clicking noise–I hear it getting closer. But I am unfamiliar with the flora and fauna of Missouri, and I do not know what to name either the tree or the chirping creature.
It’s been a tough few days. This city is literally crumbling and my family’s business here is truly part of a “dying industry”–it is draining to be in such “energy”. I mean, even though our business is rolling along and we are doing fine, the over-arching vibe is fraught with shadows. Everyone is wondering, who’s next? And I care about that. I care that our employees have jobs and health insurance, and that their families are all fine. And all that ties to the overall city, and world, eh?
I read that factories in China are shutting down suddenly. That owners are leaving without paying employees and going into hiding, or flat out committing suicide.
The United States–my world–has lived on artificial prosperity for so long. I am sad about the Chinese who are losing their jobs and their lives, tied so strongly to our economy and our extreme consumption with disregard for true value and cost.
I was awake last night watching the results of our votes add up and the big shift take place. I am still awed.
My hope is renewing.
Change in the wind.
