“I wonder how Christ would react to our polarized society”
Originally written by Shawn Hogan on December 1, 2004
For some time know, but particularly in the past year we have heard so much about a divided nation how we have polarized into the right wing and left wing, the blue states and the red states. What group holds the higher moral ground, what group commands the higher moral authority. Instead of working to find common ground and a focal point on which to begin intelligent discussion on the direction of our nation everything has degenerated into an us versus them mentality. A number of years ago I wrote an article for the Tribune and I believe the article focused on this same subject, in it I talked about how America does its best work when we come together and work together to solve problems when we find that common ground.
Where is that common ground? We no longer look to find it, everything is adversarial, there may be issues upon which some my never agree, but that does not mean that friendly discourse ends and battle lines are drawn. I was disappointed, well appalled at the anger that I witnessed during the recent national election, how it split families, alienated friends, pitted neighbor against neighbor this certainly is not a healthy sign of a nations people working together to solve our many problems. Some would have it this way; some prefer it this way I say we can find a better way.
This is the most blessed season for those of the Christian faith as we await the birth of our Savior. I wonder how Christ would react to our polarized society, our angry and some say intolerant attitudes toward one another. I believe we know how he would react and it would not be positive. The message of the Gospel is one of hope, caring, sharing one another’s burdens, tolerance, acceptance and above all forgiveness. Far too many of us carry excess negative baggage, we harbor grudges, and we dislike people because they do not think like us or look like us. We say mean and hurtful things to one another. Christ, was not judgmental or spiteful he pulled people from diverse backgrounds together, with a message of hope.
I have studied many religions and the basic tenets are the same, the message, do good for others, too others, love and forgiveness. At this time of year it is important to stop and reflect on just how we live our lives and what our ultimate goals are as individuals, families, friends and yes as a Nation. This article is not looking for a response or an argument, it is written from the heart and is merely a reflection on how I see things.
I am as guilty as anyone in my life of intolerance and anger and lack of understanding. I look to improve and to change and find that “Common Ground”.
We live in a very different time than our parents and grand parents, and our children live in a much more difficult time than even us baby boomers can a imagine. I marvel at the challenges our children face each day and what they are bombarded with from our technological driven world. But one thing remains constant the message of this season of hope, peace, love, joy, forgiveness, let it not be lost to anger or despair. Let us all rededicate ourselves to finding the “Common Ground” to move us forward together to solve the problems of this nation. I am more convinced than ever, it still is “ A Wonderful Life”.
May you all be blessed with the Peace and Joy of this season. Merry Christmas to all.
