The planet just crossed 8 billion.
I was born in 1969, so I’ve been alive for all of the billion milestones since we crossed 4 billion in 1974. In my time here, our population has doubled.
I can’t help but think about the wide range of differing views on childbearing we encounter today. Some believe that procreation is our fundamental human purpose and the ultimate gift. Others believe that having kids today is irresponsible, and how dare we. Some don’t give it much thought at all. Still, others would sacrifice anything to participate.
With 8 billion people come 8 billion opinions. Diversity is a gift. Creative tension is inevitable. Discourse is helpful.
To filter and make sense of those 8 billion opinions, we find our tribe and use labels. However, let’s not waste the gift of 8 billion humans by allowing the tribes to set the agenda and define the labels.
Wherever you find yourself today, thank a fellow human. Because without the two that came before you, there would be no you.
