Culture of Fear
November 4, 2024
We live within a culture of fear. And we're certainly not alone in this; look at the revelations that have come to light in recent years in Hilversum. This context helps explain why some "grey mice"—retired baby boomers—suddenly find their voices and feel free to share their opinions once they’ve retired. Many people in Curaçao have become indifferent, as evidenced by a wave of (fada) resignation.
Yesterday, Anthony Guillermo and others pointed out that while we can continue to analyze, the real impact depends on those in the driver’s seat—the ones who have the power to make a difference. Raising awareness may be necessary, but what is crucial is action. Dissent is essential, but dissent from retirees alone won’t bring about change unless they somehow secure seats in the next election. Even then, we’re faced with a deeper issue. Here’s how I see it: even the best driver, like Max Verstappen, would get nowhere if his car is propped up on blocks. Likewise, even the most capable person can’t drive forward with the existing structure.
There’s an understandable distrust of baby boomers. They’re finally speaking out, and it makes sense. For many, retirement frees them from the pressures of a “plantation”—their organizations. This isn’t a criticism of retirees but those currently in the driver’s seat. They’re the ones who need to make a difference. The push for change must come from them. They are, as President Theodore Roosevelt famously described in his legendary speech, “the man in the arena.”
The Man in the Arena. In his famous speech, Theodore Roosevelt highlighted the importance of those who step into the arena—those who actively participate in life’s battles and challenges. Roosevelt stated, “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man in the arena, whose face is marred by dust, sweat, and blood, who strives valiantly…”
This passage celebrates the courage and resilience of those who, despite the odds, put everything on the line, attempting to make a difference. The message is powerful: the people who dare to act, make mistakes, and push for change are the people who matter. This spirit is what we need from our leaders now: people who don’t simply analyze from the sidelines but who step in, get their hands dirty and drive the real, challenging work of transformation.
Miguel Goede
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