In an age where a politicians are in trouble for using the word swarm to describe individuals taking action that perfectly fits the dictionary definition of the word used as a verb, I find myself growing weary over the sugar coating we put on everything. It is as if the pendulum of what can be said has swung so far to one side that one cannot describe anything that might be seen as negative. Terrorists only refer to something in the abstract, never something that is real and immediate. Behaviors that offends cannot be describe as being offensive if they fit the narrative of those in power – right or left, traditional or progressive.
I appreciate the tiredness that comes from extremes. Natural disasters, overwhelming pain inflicted on ourselves, and devastating illness are just the beginning of the extremes that show up in the daily news without anyone taking particular notice. As long as it is over there, touching someone else, it can be ignored or at least detached from our emotions. Occasionally something gets through, but the “Cecil the lion” events are the exception.
I wish we could be candid and sensitive at the same time. When bad events appear to occur, hopefully we can exercise caution until the facts are confirmed. I believe we can if we start with the premise of family and community. I recognize the process will also require civility and trust.
I also pray we can call things by their right name. Evil is evil, terror is terror. When something stands out like “charred sticks in the burned-over ground,” (Psalm 83.14) it is not incorrect to be candid and blunt.
The final piece of the three-part hope is that we can work together for a better life. Regardless of faith system, ideology, or political views, we have a shared interest in kinder, more compassionate community that provides opportunities for everyone.
We are family, for the worse and the better. We need each other, in bad times as well as the good. Candor with positive intent can be our starting point.
