Yes, tough week in America. Hatred erupting in gunfire and lives cut short in the violence in Texas and Ohio. And if you care to search the not-so-spectacular news you will find hatred, gun violence and lost lives in many other places as well. We all want it to stop.
And…maybe we don’t see much hope. Instead we see resistance and politics from both sides of the aisle. Demands, outrage, deflection and disagreement on the best course of action. Insatiable greed and an unquenchable thirst for power appear to rule our democracy. Hollow platitudes and an incredibly stark indifference from those whose pockets are lined with special interest money and the blood of innocent Americans. Stinging words and blame towards all sides. And fear. Plenty of fear.
What is mine to do? I’ve been thinking about that. And I can tell you I feel stumped. I look out into the world and I think what the hell is going on here? Why are we so divided? Why does it seem okay to hate? Where did it all come from?
And then I think…wait a minute here. Why am I looking out into the world for something to make sense? Jesus didn’t do that. He didn’t. He didn’t let anything he saw shake him. He didn’t look to the government to take care of problems. He didn’t attack those who disagreed with him. He wasn’t confused or rocked off his foundation by what other people did.
You know what he did? He treated everyone the best he could. It didn’t matter who you were. It didn’t matter where you came from. It didn’t matter whose side you were on. He cared one-on-one. And he said “Follow me”.
So in the meantime, before the next election, in the middle of the next protest, at the next meeting, as you make the next phone call, as you stand up to be heard…treat everyone the best you can. Treat them kindly with your words, your thoughts and your actions.
You can bring civility and respect front and center. You do that by being that. Go ahead, stand up, say your piece, please do! And treat everyone the best you can. Everyone.
With much love
Paula
