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The “Flying Wallendas” performed amazing highwire acts, often without a safety net. The family specialized in dramatic aerial feats including a jaw-dropping, three-tier, seven-person pyramid that defied belief. Their acts were not without incident as several members of the troupe perished or were severely injured in accidents, but the act continued. In 2011, great-grandson Nic and granddaughter Delilah successfully completed a highwire attempt that caused the death of the group’s founder, Karl Wallenda on March 11, 1978.
Whether considered foolhardy endeavors or spectacular achievements by a group of talented performers, skill, strength, courage and resolve were and continue to be integral components of the act. Wallenda says that walking the wire is “a great analogy for life – everyone is just trying to get to the other side” amid many mental, emotional and physical struggles. In an August 2021 interview following a high wire act in Michigan, Wallenda cited the pandemic as a challenge that has “drained” people, but notes that spending more time with family, brings a positive aspect to the situation.
We are currently faced with a daunting combination of economic, geopolitical and emotional challenges that run the gamut from local to global impact. In an historical perspective, there is little that can be classified as novel or singular about these events since familiar patterns and attitudes can be found in the past. However, it appears that each generation is destined to discover and repair damages of repetitive ill-conceived behavior. Echoes of world wars can be seen and heard as conflicts erupt around the globe while local consternation about class distinction and homeless encampments raise the specter of the Great Depression of the 1930s.
Recognition of societal fault lines and confronting the havoc they create is also a familiar pattern that seems to repeat on a somewhat regular basis. However, technological advances enhancing avenues of communication have sharpened general public focus on not only the problems, but possible solutions as well. We no longer must rely on proprietary sources of information and can explore a plethora of ideas and opinions. This represents both an opportunity and threat.
With choice brings responsibility – taking time and effort to listen carefully to presentations and determine their sensibility and truthfulness. Wholesale acceptance of slogans, emotional appeals and dogma are the staples of dictatorial control. A bit of “horse sense” can go a long way toward distinguishing fact from fiction, separating true patriotic behavior from jingoism. In a free society, the onus is placed squarely on the shoulders of the governed who must participate or risk descent into authoritarian fascism.
At the two extremes of responsibility lie similar decisions – how to treat our fellow human and living beings. At a far corner of the globe, two opposing views of civilization are in bitter conflict. This is a stark reminder that without sacrifice and acceptance of the cost, freedom will not survive. It is incumbent on all of us to support and defend the right of self-determination no matter where or what form it takes. This is a true representation of our American ideals. On the other end of the spectrum – locally – class distinction and prejudicial behavior threaten fellow human beings who need and deserve support. While examples of violent and destructive behavior abound and provide fodder for negative responses, closer examination often reveals the fallacy of conflating facts and attitudes.
The current furor over Project Homekey is an example of the need to confront a pervasive issue that that deserves clear-eyed examination of facts of homelessness rather than indiscriminate characterizations. This plan should be viewed as a tool, rather than a solution to combat the blight of economic hardship. As with the terrible toll of war, empathy and resources are only a beginning of a continuing battle to retain our commitment to the dignity and sanctity of life.
The Flying Wallendas have persevered through generations to maintain focus and commitment to excellence in circumstances fraught with danger. Their record of success, even in the face of catastrophic accidents, supports the words of Nic Wallenda who has continued the family tradition even when buffeted by external and internal winds of change. We can all take heart from his example when walking the tightrope of life and seeking balance between our personal, family and societal needs.
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