I like mechanical things. They make sense to me. I can look at diagrams, watch them function, and diagnose what is wrong with a strong degree of certainty. There is comfort in feeling confident that I can understand what is wrong and knowing that I have the tools, skills, and materials to fix it.
Sometimes, a machine works differently than I expected but still functions as intended. Sometimes, the machine works correctly but the operator causes unanticipated results. In these situations, I can’t really “fix” the machine. It’s not broken. I can retrain an operator. I can try to modify or adapt the machine, to change my expectations to line up with the new reality, to return it and get a machine that works better, etc.
Is our Nation broken? Is it working as intended? Is it operator error? As one person, I don’t have the power to make the same changes as I could on the factory floor. Lately, I feel pretty powerless. I am committed to living my values in the face of this challenge. I will care for my community in ways that I can. I will advocate for and support those living on the margins. I don’t know if this will “fix” anything. I don’t know if it will change any hearts or minds. I do know that I will continue to live out my values regardless of the outcome.
~Ian Van Sice
