What if ideal concepts are not truly represented in the realities of events as we have been led to fantasize and believe? Does that make the ideal any less of a noble goal for which we should strive?
The United States likes to represent itself as a place that upholds equality and freedom for all people. It prides itself as a nation of justice.
Yet, only those who refuse to be honest and objective can deny the overwhelming evidence of prejudice, injustice, inequality, and discrimination against the economically disadvantaged and minorities of this country. Does the disappointing reality of the way things truly are negate the nobility and validity of the ideal? Do we give up and say, “The hell with it. I am just not going to worry about it.”?
I am often tempted to do just that. My mind tells me that whatever I do is not going to make any difference and I am just wasting my time. But I believe in the ideal. I am someone who has changed. I have been willing to listen objectively and see where I have been mislead and wrong. There are many attitudes and ideas I have held that caused me to be on the wrong side of compassion, justice, and equality. I am convinced that I still hold some attitudes and ideas that need to be reevaluated and changed.
Does the disappointing reality of the way things truly are negate the nobility and validity of the ideal?
I can deflect my energy into a counterproductive stance of focusing on how they need to change the way they look at things. But what if by my willingness to examine and truly admit those ways in which I am wrong I can encourage an atmosphere that creates a safer place for all to do the same thing? Even though it may take a lot of energy, is this not a much more productive approach?
Do not misunderstand me. I firmly believe that there is injustice which must end now. Police reform is something that must be demanded and implemented now! Those in the top ten percent of the economic tier must quit being given the entitlement of tax breaks that cause them to get a free ride on the backs of the rank and file American working class now! A court system that favors people based upon their economic standing and color must be changed now! Voices of bigotry and hatred must be rendered powerless and impotent now!
However, effective, long-lasting change will take time and patience. While destructive actions can and must not be tolerated immediately, the attitudes that cause them can only be changed over time. Some will never be willing to change. Those people must face negative consequences for their hatred which protects those they will try their best to harm.
I believe in the ideals I was taught America stands for even though the reality of my nation’s actions fall far short. I will do what I can to make those ideals a reality for all people.
I encourage you to join me in this endeavor.
Think about it.
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