For some reason I’ve seen several articles and memes, recently, with the same theme. Moderation is key. They seem to believe it’s the key to happiness.

But I say moderation is key if you take it moderately.

I know. Clever, Tony, but what does that mean for cryin’ out loud?

Well, stop cryin’ out loud and I’ll explain.

I don’t believe that moderation is key to every avenue of life. It isn’t universally axiomatic (I love that silver dollar word). What’s that you say? Provide examples? OK, here ya go.

You shouldn’t want murder, or stealing, or false accusations in moderation.

Sure, drinking in moderation is a good idea. Or shopping in moderation, certainly. But true, inalienable rights come from the Creator…otherwise they’re just policies…subject to subjectivism and/or the whims of a so-called “organic” government document.

Every person has the right to life, liberty (self-protection), and the pursuit of happiness. We can nullify our rights by violating the rights of others. But no person has the right to take those rights from an innocent person…no matter how big or small.

And here’s something that can help more than focusing on the “moderation is key” mantra. Fill yourself to overflowing with whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, and whatever things are just. Immerse yourself in whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report and have virtue and are praiseworthy.

Yeah, meditate on those things. And then get wisdom and…

Understanding

It isn’t always easy.
It isn’t always hard.
The choice is yours to play
The winning or losing card.
It isn’t always visible.
It isn’t always hidden.
There is a light so beautiful,
You’ll think that it’s forbidden.

Oh, I believe in understanding
In understanding each other.
Sooner or later we’ll find the key,
The key to the heart of our brother.

It isn’t always peaceful.
It isn’t always loud.
Sometimes you find yourself alone.
Sometimes you’re in a crowd.
It isn’t always happy.
It isn’t always sad,
And with a little understanding…
It isn’t always bad.

© 1978

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