I am a hypocrite. After writing passionately about the dissension witnessed in light of Friday's shooting, I posted an article on Facebook about gun control. Not long after, a lovely man I know from church posted one about violence not being a gun problem.
You should know that he is one of the gentlest, most compassionate souls I've ever known. There was once a time I likened him to my dad away from home. If I didn't know him better, I might judge him for his politics, and I'm ashamed to admit that. I haven't seen him for a long time, but I know if I ran into him tomorrow, his face would light up with a smile, and he'd give me a big hug. He'd probably say he misses me, that he prays for me, and I would be grateful for his thoughtfulness.
I am so sad and frustrated right now, mostly at myself. I continue to engage in the politics I despise. I post articles and comments on Facebook and write this blog in hopes of communicating how I feel - others do the same - but this is not communication. This is many, many one-sided conversations. It's no wonder I'm disillusioned. I want to talk to people, I want to find ways to get along, to bring more peace into this world. Don't you?
Over Thanksgiving, I had a rather engaging discussion recently with my dad and my cousin, and it was one of the most meaningful and refreshing conversations about politics and religion I've had in a long time. Now, if differences in politics and religion aren't enough to drive a wedge between people, especially family, I don't know what is... It wasn't easy, but it was real, in-person communication. We disagreed on many things, but we voiced our opinions respectfully, we chose our words carefully, checked our tone, witnessed each others' body language, we listened, reflected, conceded, challenged, and in many cases, we still disagreed. And then, when it was time to move on with our day, we smiled and gave each other a hug and said, "I love you." And then we ate some pie.
Facebook doesn't make room for that - except for humble pie - there's plenty of room for that.
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