Python

​I find it interesting what the mind turns to at different times.  Covid brought about a change of thinking.  When at its worst, there were those I knew that almost did not make it, and others unknown to me but related to those I know, who did not make it.
The current war is affecting my thinking.  I am considering stuff I might not have given much attention to, had not what is happening been happening.
I was taken by surprise at the turn of events, yet it appears to me that a look at history shows I really should not have been.  It looks like I am dreaming if I think human nature has improved.  There was a belief we were beyond all that, but a look around shows me that people still do anything to get their own way.  It seems to me having firm ideas as to how things should be is not so much the problem.  Having fixed unyielding ideas that do not care about anyone else’s fate is a problem though.
For some it is all love and mung beans, and mankind is improving.   While for others it is being nice with the agenda of getting what is wanted and being able to do what they like.
Our northern neighbour has been like that for me.  A succession of leaders seemed to be ready to embrace democracy.  They had limited terms and kept within the rules.
A new leader emerged and at first it seemed to be more of the same, but their agenda has become obvious with their expansion in the face of outside opposition, and the tightening of the noose for people that oppose.  We are seeing the same thing with the current world troublemaker.
In both instances they fought for and gained unlimited terms.  Leaders for life.  It is why I am against unlimited terms.  A friend once said that the best form of government is a benign dictator.  I know where they were coming from and agree.  But I always felt limited terms was a protection against someone running amok.  A person’s motives can appear good until they get what they want.
Hitler would have appeared good.  The nation did not embrace him because his evil was seen to be good.  He was seen to be what was needed.  Once he had consolidated his position though, his true nature emerged, and he brought untold misery to the world.
What is happening reminds me of how a python kills its prey.    It gets itself in position for the kill and then with each struggle of the victim there is a tightening.  Eventually the victim is at the mercy of the snake.
It is one of the reasons why I feel I can never act superior to those who have done seemingly unimaginable things.  Everyone is responsible for their actions, but the grip of the python makes a difference.