Each time when I read criticism about faraway countries (eg, Uganda) then I think of the saying above. Have we forgotten it? Are we ignoring it? Or have we become too arrogant to consider that saying? I suppose it’s the latter. Still, we condemn such countries when they judge us (eg, China, Russia).
Early June 2023, China’s new defence minister made an interesting comment on the recent incidents between American and Chinese navy vessels and their fighter jets:
“What’s the point of going there? For China, we always say mind your own business, take good care of your own vessels, your fighter jets, take good care of your own territorial airspace and waters, if that is the case, then I don’t think there will be future problems,” Li said in response to questions following his speech, “China’s New Security Initiatives.” Note: markings by LO.
Source: United States Naval Institute, 4 June 2023
USA could say the same about Chinese eavesdropping in Cuba (eg, Guardian, 11 June) but they don’t; it’s part of geopolitics. In my view, the Chinese comment is reverse psychology, including psychological projection considering China’s territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
So, why don’t we mind our own business??
Western countries like to claim the moral high ground. Such claims often feel like moral superiority, and as a display of arrogance. Moreover, only ignorance can explain the philosophical belief of white supremacy, my 2016 blog. Attacking those righteous people (Dutch: deugers) feels good.
I suppose the explanation is hidden in my previous paragraph: arrogance and/or ignorance prevent us from minding our own business.
“Do not give your attention to what others do or fail to do; give it to what you do or fail to do.” Buddha
Sources: The Positivity Blog, Good Reads, Tiny Buddha
Mind Your Own Business (1949) by Hank Williams (1923-1953)
artist, lyrics, video, Wiki-artist, Wiki-song
Note: all markings (bold, italic, underlining) by LO unless in quotes or stated otherwise.
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