We are living existing in daily contention, you and I, all of us together. We all insist we opinions matter, speech is free, journalism matters, diversity is honored, and yet that isn’t really true. In the last several days, days and days, arguments are erupting over gun rights, free speech, gay marriage, this, these, what, and who (or whom). People shouting here and there. Over there, too.
But it doesn’t matter.
It’s not conversation.
Nor is it even idle small talk.
All of it is canceling each other out. For every pro-here there is a con-there here. And of course, vice versa. And people are never people anymore, they are just objects to be shouted at. Voices to be silence by other voices. Talk and over talked. The art of civility has become of museum quality and even that is up for discussion.
Isn’t it always?
No longer is there a respect for dialogue. Now there is triumph in beating down opponents when there is no gain to be had. No trophies to be brought home, no participation medals for all those who have been equalized in ability. Gold stars for everyone do not exist here, where we are now. All we have created is a deafening silence where everyone talks but no one says anything. Silence without concentration. Silence without thought.
A silence where all mindful perspective has been cancelled.
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When all the noise has canceled itself out, we may finally hear what isn’t being said, and maybe, just maybe, begin to heal.
Let us hope so, Cheryl. And hope that we may learn as well.
You have such a way of hitting the nail on the head that is both refreshing and poignant. This post was no different. Bravo.
Thank you Stereo. I appreciate your encouragement tremendously.
I wish I could beg ignorance of this situation, but it is all too “in the face” now. Has it always been this way? Or if not, when did it become thusly?
I don’t think it has always been this way. I remember being able to watch the news and not feeling like I was being yelled at or people were yelling at each other. I remember when CNN was new! Even watching old debates on YouTube… people were so much more calm, measured… respectful. There has been a change at least within the last 15 years, I think.
yes. yes.
It makes me sad. Just… sad.