What is a wise person to do when his nation becomes foolish, corrupt or intentionally evil?

At times both Shakespeare and Lao-tzu, as well as other saints and sages, suggest that withdrawal is the wisest course of action. Jesus, Buddha and others suggest that one bring into the world greater soulfulness.

The question remains, therefore: Should we retire into our more silent selves, or should we identify more with our transformed active natures? Should we pursue illumination through inaction, or should we seek enlightenment through activity?

In America, which has long pursued a course of meddlesome and unenlightened action, the decision becomes more immediate and urgent.

In simpler terms: At this late and overextended date, should a wise person “run for the hills,” or get into the pot with the soon to be boiled lobster?

Lots of people have come to the islands, in an attempt to put most of America behind them. But that was an unwise decision.

Those who have a more survivalist mentality have gone northward or upward into the mountains of America. They, at least, have pure water, wood for fuel, game for food and guns.

When the Wheel of Fortune signals the need for real assets — those which provide shelter, sustenance and value-in-trade, you’d better not be living in a condo, holding your wealth in paper.

– Raphael O’Suna,   Haiku