Notes To A Young Woman Who Vicariously Lives The Anger of Her Father

I showed a post with the phrase above to two friends in the "real world" whom I regularly discuss the issues of the day with. It was on another site somewhere in the cyberspace universe, but still the words were rather fascinating to both of them.

One blurted out, "What intolerant people they are!"

The other shook her head and just said, "Wow".

Since I am practicing kindness (a last admonition from my days as a poster), I merely said nothing. In fact, saying nothing in this case does a world of good in the long run. But, the comments (referring to a thread about diversity) deserved a small entry in which I could express some remarks of wisdom for others who try to build bridges where there isn't one. Hopefully, that will do some good in light of the bitterness expressed during the post referring to the thread in queston.

So, here they are.

People who want to discuss diversity must never give up in the hope that their words will reach someone who is kind and responsive to changing societal attitudes toward all aspects of difference. It is about awareness and education. It is about trying to walk in another's shoes and understanding the plight of people who are different from you.

Well, some of us can't ignore conversations about difference. We live in the realm of diversity and difference throughout all our lives. Instead, it is much better to be courageous and continue the conversation because there is always hope that people exist who have compassion and understanding. Furthermore, it is of the highest yearning that there are people out there who will shut off the messages of anger and intolerance to learn something new about people who aren't like them. It is persons like these that one must have hope for. They would simply listen, ask questions and make observances.

Then, a conversation such as the one referred to would be productive and more sincere.

Right now, we all have to realize that we're all in this together. And if we don't learn about each other, it is as good as living in a house divided. And like Former President Abraham Lincoln quipped once, "A House divided cannot stand".

So for those who are ready to conquer the brave new territory of understanding others, they must keep their head up and continue to strive. Unfortunately, there are others who have not even gotten out of the gate. They too easily believe the hype and wallow in propaganda quicksand. But, those who do manage to unlock the fence and step forward are the ones who benefit in the end. :)