Original article by Diana Valimanya, published at marfanta.com
This week, after intense work with a vision of the future of our territory, I have had the pleasure of sharing moments with very firm people; with great potential and love for the territory, united by a project for the future. Reviewing all of the above these days, an essential part of this project comes to mind: the vision that drives it, a vision that is not only born from an appreciation for the territory, but also from a deep understanding of what it means to plan for the future.
One of the pillars of this vision is a figure who has been able to channel this energy and inspire others to work together. It is an admirable man, Mr. Bartomeu, who has been the driving force behind this project. His ability to look beyond the present, his commitment and his ability to lead with an approach that embraces both immediate and future needs, make him a reference for all those involved. Its strategic vision is not only aimed at preserving the territory, but also at creating conditions that allow for sustainable and balanced development in the long term.
Like the cathedral that is built with patience and dedication, this project that we are designing today under the leadership of Mr. Bartomeu. And Mr. Xavier R., is not only for the present, but also for future generations. It is a work that will transcend time and that leaves a positive mark for all those who will come after us.
“We all have a sugar cloud brain, which can become obsessed with short-term cravings and rewards. But we also have an acorn brain that allows us to imagine distant futures and work on long-term goals”
That’s how it all began; reflecting the duality between immediate desire and the ability to work towards long-term goals. A way of expressing the tension between what drives us to seek quick gratifications (the “sugar cloud brain”) and what allows us to plan and persist over time (the “acorn brain”).
We live in a society where the tension between immediate desires and the need for a long-term vision is becoming more and more palpable. Our brains are shaped to wish quick rewards, but we also have the ability to plan for the long term and work toward lasting goals. This duality manifests itself in the struggle between “short-term drivers” and “long-term ways of thinking”. A battle between immediacy and deep reflection, between the appetite for the instantaneous and the responsibility of planning our future and that of others.
The key to facing this struggle lies in finding a balance, taking advantage of moments of change to transform our lives and society in general.
The “short-term drivers” are forces that lead us to focus on the present moment and immediate solutions. One of the main factors is the tyranny of the clock, which forces us to see the world through an approach that prioritizes what can be achieved quickly, limiting our ability to think long-term. Digital distraction, with social media and notifications, fosters a culture of instant gratification, undermining our attention and deep reflection.
In the political sphere, presenteeism leads to electoral myopia, where quick solutions are prioritized to win elections, without considering the future consequences.
Long-term ways of thinking offer us alternatives based on responsibility and deep vision. The humility of deep time reminds us that we are ephemeral in cosmic time, and encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions for future generations. The legacy mentality drives us to leave a legacy that is not only material, but also cultural, moral and ecological, benefiting those who will come after us. Intergenerational justice highlights the importance of taking into account the needs of future generations, following the principle of the “seventh future generation” to ensure responsible long-term decisions.
The image of the drop that slowly penetrates and transforms the earth reminds me deeply of the team led by Mr. Bartomeu and the mayor of La Ràpita. Like those who water the land patiently, without them, this project would never have been born. His leadership has been like that constant, discreet but essential watering that nourishes and revitalizes the roots of a common dream, until suddenly, at an unexpected moment, something new sprouts.
They are the ones who, with their perseverance and courage, have kept alive the spark of a project that seemed, at times, to be in the shadows, without the visibility it deserved. But, like the land that is irrigated, this project has been nourished invisibly, in a silent process, full of work and dedication. Without them, none of this growth would have been possible. Their patience, their love for what they do, their ability to rely on the time needed to see the fruits of their labor, is what has made all of this come true.
Like the seed that becomes visible after having been deeply rooted, his work has created conditions for all latent potential to gradually open up to the world. Their efforts, despite being silent, have been the impetus that has allowed what was invisible, even to prying eyes, to become something palpable, something that will last beyond its time.
As Ebre residents, we must feel fortunate that there are people like Mr. Bartomeu and Mr. Xavi, and many others, who watch over our territory, working discreetly and with immeasurable passion for what really matters. Often, the value of this work is invisible to the hurried eye, but if we stop and are able to look around, with patience and a sincere gaze, we will see how this common dream materializes before us.
Perhaps, if we take the time to look for the essentials in the corners of our land, we will find the answers that connect us with our past, our present and the future that we are building together. This is the strength of our community, of the complicity in which we unite to make this project a reality. If we search with the courage and patience we need, we will discover that the magic is already underway and that every small gesture, every detail, adds up to achieve an impact that goes beyond our time.
The answer lies in the land, in the people who love it, and in the decisions we make together.