Occupy and Mural

There is a clear connection between the painting and today.  The similarities like the wealthy getting richer while the poor trudge and struggle to work illustrate an eerie déjà vu.  The buildings being built signify the wealthy/ leaders of the country ignoring the poor and serving their needs as well.  The buildings being constructed signifies wasted resources that could go to services for the less fortunate to access.  Similarly the wasted resources that could go towards helping people who are now protesting, it’s instead squandered on war and foreign conflicts when a severe conflict is arising in domestically.  The guard watching over the horde of sleeping homeless is similar to the police surveying the occupy protesters.  The bank showing the few wealthy people counting their fortunes is a connection to the one percent of the people in this country holding most of the wealth.  The dividers themselves can be an obvious symbol of the opportunity divide itself.  As I look at the mural the depth of field showing light going to dark highlights the glory for the rich but misery for the working and poor.  That simply means while the rich have money they are ignoring the whole problem which is the lack of opportunity while the working see no end in sight to inequality.  The fact that the mural itself was torn down is an indirect signal of rich people denial.  They don’t want to admit they’re wealth is thanks to the rigors of the destitute and poor.

What Inspires Me

The source of my inspiration comes from all the support friends and family have provided throughout my existence.  For instance my grandparents have been second parents along with my mom.  They all have spent time and money investing in my education.  If I were to quit school or say “F” it, I’ll just become homeless at least they don’t have to work or pay for anything”.  That would be giving up and wasting their investment.  While I don’t have the status, money or means to reward them for their support and show my appreciation, the least I could do is continue through school and work or look for work.  That shows I care and appreciate their help from all these years.  In terms of feeling and emotions I don’t really have much concerning this issue except to “Just do it”.  People who have asked me this question ask “Is that all that keeps you going in life”?  Or, “Is there anything else”?  Many see my reason as pessimistic, although I see it as a reason to not give up.  Others think I should have more reasons to drive on in life such as god and religion, have some kids or just in general, a promising future.  It would devastate family and friends if I all of a sudden gave up in life.  The inspiration is permanent because to this day I still get that high support but high expectations to succeed.  I will to succeed to repay them and show their support was taken seriously by me.