One of our greatest enemies, from a 2012 post.
So what's wrong with the status quo? A lot, when it comes to problems that continue to get worse.
For the purposes of getting to the heart of things, here's the definition of "status quo" from the Merriam-Webster's Dictionary:
The existing state of affairs (seeks to preserve the status quo)
I'll use my own experience to set some context and you can apply my example to anything you like.
About 25 years ago I persecuted my dad in-person and alone. I was angry for what was done and for what was missing. I waged this case on what seemed like a daily basis. I protested, I lied, I ignored, and I was silently cruel.
At a point, a few years into my marriage, my wife asked me if I realized how distant and cruel I became when I was around my father. I denied it, I defended myself and I felt exposed. How could she know my secret, my wound, my war? I decided to prosecute on.
The existing state of affairs (seeks to preserve the status quo)
You might wonder why I wouldn't make the choice to change, to turn it around, to forgive. I'm sure there are multiple reasons why, but certainly I felt more comfortable in the prosecution's case. I fooled myself into believing that my existing state would deliver an outcome I thought was right. Little did I know how wrong I was.
Many years on, my case rested and the charges were dismissed. I forgave and got a few years of peace and freedom before he passed. I actually found a man I liked and certainly loved. I do, at times, wish I would have come to my senses or figured out that it Really is better to forgive.
Are you tracking with me? Can you see the danger in sticking with the status quo?
Think about this:
- The status quo fools you into believing that all is well, regardless of the problems looking right at you.
- The status quo demands you lie and defend.
- The status quo assures you saftey and a future you won't have to deal with.
- The status quo accuses (loudly) reformers of betrayal and madness.
- The status quo uses fear to keep you in place.