Something dark and disturbing appears to have overtaken our world. A foreboding shadow is emerging perhaps, beginning to creep in as a faint but persistent fog which seems to be settling over us and dulling the perceptions of right and wrong; love vs hate; pitting apathy at war against kindness. What happened to us??
Where have the simple traits of respecting our fellow human beings and caring for one another gone? We stand here today seemingly complacent and accepting of a culture based on violence surfacing at every opportunity each time we see something we don't like. How have we arrived at this place where children and students are eager to harass and embarrass and tear down their fellow classmates over insignificant behaviors or perceptions? Did we agree to accept endless violence, physical attacks and bullying as our new "normal"?
If you wish to know the real soul of a person, watch their actions. One cannot lift their hands in worship on Sunday to pray for peace while harboring a spirit which seeks only to gain control by violence. Watch for a period of time and you will see the true colors spilling out.
The anger and rage running rampant throughout our towns, cities and streets is no longer merely a difference of opinion but a tragic sign of things to come. When we are willing to shoot and kill one another over a disagreement or perceived disrespect, each petty quarrel now becomes fuel for intimidation to foster this new culture of fear.
Actions speak louder - not just about who we are but about the people we are becoming. Without a willingness to put aside retaliation and aggression, how can we ever expect to find peace? Will we simply continue to self-destruct until one day, when we finally decide we want peace badly enough, we pause and consider laying down our anger and resentment? I pray and hope that day comes soon, because we can't. Live. Like. This.
