First, let me say that I am SO SICK of self-righteousness and political divide I can hardly stand it. I have never seen a nation so grossly divided because of pride, prejudice and politics; at least not in my lifetime. Sick and unhealthy we are as a nation. Unloving, ungrateful, unrelenting in our quest to be RIGHT. Right against all other nations, right against our neighbors, right against anyone who doesn’t think, look, act or vote the way we do. No one wins when someone is made to be the clear-cut loser at all costs. It’s just getting wearisome and seditious…and yes, we have to have winners and losers in any race. Unfortunately even the human one; the embattled human race. Sigh.
Some people do not know they’re racists. I am certain of this. They TRULY believe that because they “don’t use the N word,” or that they, get this, “have black friends…” that they’re not racist. Some think that because SOME Mexicans are illegal that ALL Mexicans “don’t belong here” or the “ones that learn English” are better than the ones that don’t. I know this sounds harsh and negative, but I am hoping to shine a light on something I truly believe: People who don’t know they’re racist, truly believe they’re not racist!
In my assessment, people who think like this are equally as dangerous to the human spirit as those who don white gowns and wear their prejudicial badge with honor. It’s what I believe. I’ve researched varying definitions of racism…and there are many…and the definition appears to be changing. It’s much deeper than Merriam-Webster’s summary or Jim Crow’s declarations. Racism is a way of life that some were immersed in, some indoctrinated to believe and some merely clueless that they even carry “the gene.”
I think the definition should include the words intolerance, anger, hatred, disgust…because as I read commentary from people on the matter of race, gender, sexual orientation, nation of origin…I see ignorance, intolerance, hatred, superiority…because THEY aren’t any of those things and perhaps they don’t even understand why they are so disgusted. But it is blatant and bigoted disgust…from the safety and security of a keyboard…somewhere in middle America.
Have we really ever had compassionate understanding of another’s perspective? Have we ever truly experienced loving thy neighbor as thyself? Is there an exclusion clause in scripture that negates “illegals, blacks, homosexuals, the homeless…and anyone who isn’t like you?” I’m asking because I have friends who are lovers and followers of Christ, yet they spew ugliness like I’ve never before witnessed. Because I have friends who call themselves tolerant who point fingers and degrade and chastise. I have friends that will go on mission trips but don’t want “those people” living next door to them.
What is it that we all fear? What is it that keeps racism alive and thriving? Does one’s knowledge of scripture create superiority? Does one’s claim of acceptance actually create tolerance or do actions speak louder than delusions? Does prejudice make you better than the person you despise? How can another man’s opportunity for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness be a threat to the ability to exhibit compassion or love? What I am seeing and hearing is not love. Far from it. From either side, really…and just because you are AGAINST a person’s way of life, his reason for being in this country, the color of his skin, the sound of his accent, or the headdress he wears….does that give you the right to forsake kindness and compassion, does it? Forget your justification of welfare, healthcare, taxes; for one moment, forget the FINANCIAL implications of what you’re so angry about…what is it about the human being underneath the black, brown, rainbow-colored skin that threatens YOUR road to heaven? Or your ability to love another human being? Is your bank account so valuable that you would forsake the instructions of your Savior? If you’re financially impacted, are you exempt from compassion? If you’re morally opposed, are you exempt from kindness? If you’re spiritually violated, are you exempt from love?
What is it about our differences and our lack of understanding about another’s quest to a happy and meaningful life that causes such discomfort and uneasiness? WHEN WILL WE LEARN that God already knows what is in our hearts? And if you think your “well, I don’t use the N word” or “well, if they paid taxes I’d be okay with them,” or “the bible says so,” is enough to conceal your confused and tainted heart…you might wanna have a chat with your Maker…and look in the mirror. And we ALL better damn well get it right before we have to atone for our sins, thoughts, actions, hearts… LOVE WINS EVERY TIME. That’s what my Christ has taught me anyway…
Educate yourself on these terms: racism, intolerance, migrant, immigrant, equality, love, compassion, negro, Afro-Mexican, caucasian, human spirit, Christ.