You are not alone…
In this, I can assure you.
I am here for you.
Monthly Archives: May 2015
Patriotism sans Compatriotism
When out and about, look at the people around you…
How many people consider the people they share the same state with a compatriot?
How about the county, city, or even one’s next door neighbors?
Many people spout on about being patriotic, but how many really view one another as a fellow countrymen (/compatriot/citizen/whatever-term-one-is-more-comfortable-with)? It seems that many who claim to be “patriots” do not treat their neighbors as compatriots. Do we spend too much time focusing on our differences rather than the things that should unite us?
Too often, I hear people making statements that denigrate others because of silly differences.
Sex, gender, sexuality (or lack thereof), spiritual path (or lack thereof), religion, phenotype, melanin content, language.
Are these differences so important that they should bring about a divisiveness?
Should we not try to focus on being more forward thinking?
If not, can we really say we are advanced?
I think we spend too much time focusing on our differences in a negative way. The challenge is this negative focus has a higher probability of causing alienation, resentment, and further negativity. Thereby creating a cycle of behavior that, I feel, is not conducive to the social progress of which this country is in need.
In his speech, “House Divided” (1858) Abraham Lincoln said, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.”
Let us really consider that statement as we look at the current issues in our current culture.
Have we become divided against ourselves?
A Response to Recent Riots
There are just so many people who are angry… So many who are just itching for a reason to release that pent up energy… These high charged and intense emotions spill out… People want someone to blame, people are looking for a scapegoat to carry out their excess frustrations on under the veneer of righteous anger. Is it really righteous to harm the community? So many answer to a false call to arms… Is it necessary to inflict violence and harm against a fellow community member who has nothing to do with the reason one is upset? Is it righteous to destroy their livelihood in the process? It is sad that so many place more value on one’s melanin content and phenotype over their deeds, accomplishments, and character.
When will we rise beyond the limitations and barriers which have been placed upon us?
Have we become so myopic in our everyday lives that we no longer seek to expand our horizons?
What will motivate you into stepping outside of your comfort zones?