You and I have a way of viewing our world. Sometimes it’s not identical.
Here are some possible responses when someone doesn’t agree with the way you think any particular thing should be viewed:
- Discredit
- Question
- Debate
- Belittle
- Inquire
- Demean
- Defer
- Discuss
- Inform
- Demonize
- Consider
- Subjugate
- Listen
- Harass
- Embrace
- Murder
- Love
We live in what some believe is the most divisive era of our lifetime. I can see how they believe this. Strong community-oriented sensibilities are colliding with unwavering allegiance to value sets. “I’m okay but you’re clearly not okay but that’s okay because that can be fixed. Now hold still so we can begin the fixing.” The consequences are becoming impossible to ignore. Take a look at popular culture, business, politics and education.
I still see beauty. But the beast is never far behind. We’re witnessing incredible acts of heroism committed by unassuming folks as regular as you and I. Our heros aren’t the omnipotent archetypes of just 20 years ago. They’re moms and neighbors and children doing remarkable things out of the compulsion of their values.
Then there’s that other stuff.
We may not be able to completely understand the calculus of our culture and the times we live in. But that shouldn’t stop us from thoughtfully pursuing the conversation. Hopefully that conversation spurs some noble action in all of us.
Our world needs it.
Photo credit : Flickr
