Haters
Racism and intolerance is as old as the Bible. History is full of people who are caught up in hatred for those that are different from them. You would think that we would have learned our lesson, but hatred is alive and well today. African-Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asians, Muslims, Jews, Christians, Gays, Republicans, Democrats, etc., all have their haters.
I realize that racism typically talks about people of different origin, but hatred seems to be prevalent in our society for anyone who does not believe as we do. It is a phenomenon that seems to repeat itself over and over…unfortunately.
Racism and intolerance are rooted in fear and ignorance. We tend to fear what we do not understand. Sadly, this attitude seems to be generational. I think and feel this way because my Dad and his Dad felt that way.
Is it possible to break this cycle? Realistically, no…at least not totally. It will always be with us as long as there are people different from us, but we can affect the cycle. What can we do in a positive sense?
- Confront racism and intolerance when you encounter it. People who are haters have to be confronted or they will continue to spew their hatred to you and all they encounter.
- You can disagree with people who are different and still be respectful to them. You don’t have to compromise your standards and morals; just be kind, loving, and respectful to those that you disagree with.
- Learn to listen to those who are different from you. Once again, you don’t have to compromise your core beliefs to understand where someone is coming from. The only way to understand them is to listen to them. Admittedly, what they say still may not make sense to you when they have explained themselves, but at least you showed them respect by listening to them and letting them be heard.
- Resist the temptation to argue with those you disagree with. Listen to them, state your point of view, and perhaps come to the conclusion that you agree to disagree. That makes a lot more sense than bashing each other verbally or even physically, doesn’t it?
I realize we live in a messed up world, but maybe it can be a little brighter, happier, safer, and rewarding if we lose the hatred for each other. In the words of Rodney King, “Can’t we all just get along?”
Shalom!
Dan Skognes