I saw a live stage production this weekend of Othello and it was truly marvelous. The production starred Blair Underwood and Richard Thomas. I came away from the performance considering all the people in the world who are like the character "Iago." Iago's main purpose in life is to create havoc. If you are aware of the story, you know that Othello loves and trusts Iago with all of his heart. Othello believes that Iago is truly a friend. Needless to say, Iago is about Iago and holds a deep hatred for the proud Iago who wins the heart of the most beautiful girl in the village. Othello never knows the true character of Iago until Othello has killed his wife and after realizing Iago's deeds were the reason he killed his wife and then kills himself.
The final scene in which four people are dead and one is injured finds Iago simply blowing out a candle and smiling. That is what havoc does. It creates chaos and mayhem and then when the lives of so many have been shattered; havoc moves on. It moves on to the next unsuspecting situation and victim. It moves on with complete satisfaction.
I hope you are aware of the Iago's of the world. Pay attention to what is being said to you and always seek the truth from deep within yourself. Don't allow the Iago's of the world to run amok within your spirit. Stop the Iagos. Stop the havoc. Save yourself from undue heartache. Listen to yourself and if your answers appear cloudy....Pray and seek the counsel of someone who has NOTHING TO GAIN from your situation.
Until the next time,
Peaceful thoughts,
-Dorothea