The current presidential administration constantly uses the phrase, “Make America Great Again” or MAGA. Some would question if America was ever great, and many would argue that it is no better today than it was before. If we look back through history, every generation has had issues they’ve dealt with specific to the times; so why should we be any different? I am proud to be an American born during this time, but even in my lifetime, I feel like in some ways we’ve gone backwards. Hate crimes have escalated to an all-time high and we must act verses just react if we want to see things improve.
The question I ponder is how do we build a culture of kindness, forgiveness and compassion? What has happened to humanity where the simple acts of kindness, showing respect and common courtesies have gone out the window? It seems like every time we turn on the news or read the paper, we learn about another mean act or hate crime towards someone based on his or her race, gender or sexual orientation. Recently we learned that actor and singer, Jussie Smollett was a victim of a hate crime and was attacked in Chicago for being a gay, Black male. It was also stated that his attackers placed a rope around his neck. Since the occurrence of this heinous act, there has been a big outpouring of love from people everywhere showing solidarity with him during his time of healing.
As people share their concern about what happened to Jussie, a central theme that continues to pop up is that hate won’t win. Kevin Hart said, “why are we falling in love with hate?” He urged all of us to choose love and that he would continue to teach his kids how to do the same. For years, I have spoken and written about the power of forgiveness and how it can change our lives forever. I believe this now more than ever. I found Kevin Hart’s statement to be so profound and believe that no matter what life brings, eventually the pendulum of justice always swings back to love. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too big a burden to bear.”
If hate costs too much, then what are we willing to pay to show love? I believe in the power of one and if each of us makes it our business to make a difference, it can get better. I was recently talking to a friend of mine (who happens to be African American) and he was sharing that whenever he gets a chance, he likes to dispel myths, especially when they are centered around race or gender. We live in a world where people’s opinion or actions are often based on prejudice or pre-judged situations that have no real validity. All of us have some level of prejudice, but are we willing to make the necessary adjustments to make our world a better place?
Showing kindness, forgiveness and compassion is a choice. Every day we all can chose to be kind or to be mean. We can forgive those who have offended us or not, and we can show compassion towards those that really need a little love. Ultimately it is our choice. We don’t know what others may be going through or experiencing when they behave the way they do. All of us fall short and that’s why all of us stand in need of grace and mercy. Are you willing to take the first step? To help with the healing that must take place if we want to live in a world of peace? Let’s leave this world a better place than it was before we leave here. MEGA. “Make Earth Great Again.”
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on!
Visit www.WendyEnterprises.com and www.forgivingforliving.org. Wendy is an international coach, consultant and speaker. You may email her at [email protected].
