Change Has Got to Start Somewhere!

Thoughts on Recent Events in our Country

People in our country seem to have gone absolutely crazy. Most recently it started with the presidential election; but even before that, posts on social media have spewn hatred and violence of all kinds. Erupting from the way people refuse to censor their own comments - posting or blogging things without the decency of moderating what comes out of their “mouths,” - it has expanded into public behavior, resulting in literal disrespect, vandalism, aggression, and violence. This has to stop. If we cannot share our opinions, disagree and debate while respecting another’s right to disagree with us, we do not deserve and will not long retain the right to live in a country with such freedoms. 

Change has to start somewhere. If we throw up our hands and say ‘it has gotten too far out of control, what can we do?’ then we shall surely be washed away in the tide of violence that has swelled up amongst us. I am calling on everyone to decide NOT to post or share (or “like”) hateful messages, blog posts, “news” reports or videos. Are we trying to stoke the fire??!  Remember Martin Luther King, Jr.’s comment that “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that,” and respond in kind.  If you think it’s gotten too big and too ugly, just look at what he and his fellow workers accomplished against something truly huge and ugly. And they didn’t riot and pillage, defame or murder. It CAN be done.

To those who feel that riotous protests are the way to express their political dissatisfaction, let me say beware. Such behaviors characterized many South American governments when I was young. Look what it got them. Yes, our political process is flawed, as is every system on this earth, but it is still the best there is. (Just look at all who wish to come here to enjoy such freedoms they don’t have where they live.) If you disagree with my statement, then look at the system you think is better and take what is good from that and work toward adjusting our system to reflect the changes you feel would make it better. I’m not interested in reading your comments about how ethnocentric my opinion is. 

The right to have our voices heard - in speech and protest, yes, but especially in VOTING for what we want - is one that cannot be taken for granted. For far too long, people have remained uninformed and complacent/apathetic about participating in the election process. Being led by the nose by sound bytes and slanted media stories doesn’t produce an informed electorate. Take a small step toward improving the way our process works out by determining to become informed and involved in voting for persons who reflect your values and issues that affect your lives. If we can’t become that, what business do we have in choosing leaders and implementing laws?   

I implore you all. Do your part. Return ignorance and hatred with kindness, knowledge (facts) and compassion. You don’t have to give in or be “mamby-pamby” about issues. Just address them with civility and proper action. If we set our collective minds to this, we CAN effect change. Future generations will thank us for it.