THE PARADOX OF OUR TIMESIs that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempersWider freeways, but narrower viewpointsWe spend more, but we have less.We have bigger houses, but smaller familiesMore conveniences, but less time.We have more degrees, but less senseMore knowledge, but less judgementMore experts, but more problemsMore medicines, but less wellness.We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too oftenWe have learnt how to make a living, but not a life.We have added years to life, but not life to years.We’ve been all the way to the moon and backBut have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbour.We have conquered outer space, but not inner space.We’ve cleaned up the air, but polluted our soul.We’ve split the atom, but not our prejudice.We’ve higher incomes, but lower morals.We’ve become long on quantity but short on quality.These are the times of tall men, and short character;Steep profits, and shallow relationships.These are the times of world peace, but domestic warfare,More leisure, but less fun; more kinds of food, but less nutrition.These are the days of two incomes, but more divorces;Of fancier houses, but broken homes.It is a time when there is much in the show window, and nothing in the stockroom.A time when technology can bring this letter to you,And a time when you can choose,Either to make a difference …. or just hit, delete.– His Holiness the Dalai Lama
