Does Simplistic Opposition Against “the Other” ever work?
Can we all just stop for a moment? Amidst all the yelling and arguing, finger pointing, partisan-political emails, TV News propaganda, YouTube video conspiracy theories, and anger, we must all ask ourselves one little question… has any of this helped in anyway other than to strengthen the resolve on both sides that the other is the enemy???
Can’t we see that when you aggressively oppose the agenda or act of “the other” we actually end up strengthening their cause. The end result is always the opposite of what one’s original motivations were. This cycle of madness is done on both sides of the aisle, and we are all to blame. In a desire to see one movement stop we simplistically oppose it and in return strengthen the resolve and tactics of the other side. It’s time to step back from these simplistic oppositions and begin to engage in healthy dialogue as though we are all created in God’s Image.
People are complex, issues are complex, society is complex. When you apply simple answers to a complex world, you do not always get the results that you originally intended. If you want someone to change their mind on an issue… probably yelling at them while holding mean signs is not going to get it done. If you somehow miraculously convince one out of a thousand people through those means, the other 999 will develop greater resolve and become more organized in responding to your tirade.
Here’s an idea… why don’t we try the slow yet proven method of REAL conversation. Sit down over a cup of coffee, a beer, or a sweet tea and share your stories, experiences, and how the issue that you are passionate about hits home for you. Uh but wait, remember that conversation takes two to work, so you need to allow the other person to share their own stories and experiences.
Now I know that crusading around opposing everything may feel more like the right thing to do, but in the end we look back and must ask ourselves what have we really accomplished. No, for those who actually want to see change come are going to have to do it the old fashioned way… by rolling up those sleeves and investing yourself and much time in people and communities as you begin building bridges of mutual trust, respect, and understanding.
If not we are destined to the continuing escalation of resistance, tension, and division that has defined us as a people in America.
I’m Just Sayin!
PhD???
Been considering getting my PhD after I finish up my MDiv. I am still not sure if that is what I really want to do. I am looking at both the Urban Studies as well as the Religion programs at Temple University. My concern is that I do not want to get lost in the world of academia. I want everything that I do to have practical and real world implications. I want everything that I do to align with how I understand God is working and moving.
I still have some time to decide… I’ve got some praying and reflection to do in the upcoming days.
What I’m Reading Right Now…
This is what I am reading right now… it’s pretty good so far. Content is good for everyone, although it is written for those who are at least somewhat engaged in theological dialogue. This is my 4th book by Wright, and I appreciate his stuff overall. If ya don’t know, now ya know to check him out.
Waiting for Superman
I just saw a free screening of the documentary “Waiting for Superman”. It tackles the tough subject of Education in America. The film succesfully points out that it is time to reform the broken educational system, and does it in a powerful and moving manner. It is without a doubt a “MUST SEE” film, which should be out in October, 2010.
Until then, enjoy the trailer
VOICES: Responses to the Oscar Grant Trial Verdict
Some of what we can do best with our given influences and voices (whether small or large) is allow it to become a platform for other important voices to be heard. Check this video out comprised of multiple voices and perspectives following the verdict and during the protest.
Oscar Grant and 6% of the Population
Overshadowed by the hype of Lebron’s decision to sign with the Miami Heat, was the verdict of a controversial case that took place 18 months ago in Oakland, CA. See here for more info on the case.
At the end of the day, all this reminds me that we have not come too far from slavery. What are black bodies actually worth in our society? If black men can entertain America while speaking good english, dressed main stream, and not flashing their wealth in our face, then they seem to be valued. However, for most of us (black men) our lives seem to still not matter that much in the eyes of our country.
This case is nothing new, it is not the first time an unarmed black man has been shot and killed by police and it will not be the last. The argument is always the same… the police officer always “accidently” shoots and kills us. The thing I am confused about is how we are the only ones being shot and killed by police accidently, when we are only 6% of the nations population. I didn’t get an A in Statistics Class, but I am sure my math is good enough to know that the numbers and probability don’t add up right.
Black people are not the only people on earth or in human history to not have their bodies and lives valued. In fact, in the 1st Century thousands and thousands of Jewish men were crucified under the authority and control of the Roman Empire. In Rome, Jewish lives were desposable. In the second half of the century alone, about 6000 Jews were crucified.
Interestingly enough, we look at the crucifixion of Jesus as a unique death that no one else could bare. The truth is that the Roman Empire saw Jesus just like they saw all the other thousands of Jews killed during that era… he was just another Jew, and taking his life was no big deal. I mean, it wasn’t like he was Roman or something right?
America must move beyond the apathy it has towards the lives of black people. Not care about them because they can rap, ball, dance, act, tell a good joke, or speak “good english”, but because we too are created by God and in His image. And when any of God’s beloved are undervalued, marginalized, or mistreated, we should all be troubled. We ought to rediscover our righteous indignation that disallows our comfort in the midst of others struggles. Whether someone is Black, Jewish, Middle Eastern, Homeless, Homosexual, a drug addict or prostitute we need to care about their lives, bodies, and overall welfare. Apart of our calling (if you are Christian) is to take care of “the least of these” in our society. That is those who are most vulnerable in our society. And that includes Oscar Grant and all the others who have been MURDERED while vulnerable and unprotected by the people who have been charged to provide safety and protection to them.
You And Now!
This is my last night on my Civil Rights bus tour, and I thought I would leave you all with a John Lewis quote for the night. The picture was taken from the Civil Rights section of the Nashville Public Library downtown.
March 4th, 1968
Everytime I am in Memphis and go to the Lorraine Motel I get emotional. Standing there where King was shot always takes me into the moment. All I feel is loss… loss of this leader, OUR leader, who was taken from us. King died at the young age of 39 leaving us wondering what other great accomplishments he would achieved in his life. He would never get the chance to grow old, instead he was killed while fighting for the rights of garbage workers.
Ran into John Perkins
Ran into a living legend, someone I respect very much today. The one and only John Perkins. If you don’t know who he is, i suggest you find out.
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