Our world is full of ironies, and hypocrites! For example, although, Biblical passages warn us, of the dangers of specific behavior, and informs us, to ask for forgiveness, for those times when we committed the so – called, sin, of xenophobia, or fear/ dislike/ prejudice against people from other nations, it is, often, those individuals, who describe themselves, as evangelicals, who are most guilty of this thought – process, and form of behavior! Is today’s atmosphere, of, political polarization, and apparent, prejudice, simply a form of this fear, or is it merely, a rhetorical/ political behavior, actual facts, or, based on ignorance, and/ or our fears? With that in mind, this article will attempt to, briefly, review, examine, consider, and discuss, each of these, and how, they impact, the current divisive political atmosphere.
1. Xenophobia: Merely, because someone comes from another country, follows different philosophies/ traditions, is a certain religion/ ethnicity, shouldn’t be, the reason, for bias, fears, prejudice, or mistrust! Wouldn’t it be better, if we were all more tolerant, and willing to accept others, as they are, seeking a meeting – of – the – minds, for the common good? When President Trump articulates a message (apparently, either because he truly believes it, or, because he is trying to appeal to the baser instincts (dark – side), of his constituents/ core supporters), what is the impact on the potential polarizing of positions, and further unwillingness to listen to others?
2. Rhetoric/ politics: Perhaps, more than any of his predecessors, President Donald J. Trump, is a political master of promoting his message. This, perhaps, largely explains the unwavering support of his core/ base supporters, seemingly, regardless of how outrageous, others believe, his behavior, and or rhetoric, may be! In recent memory, we have never experienced, any of the occupants of the White House, who used the language, rhetoric, and vitriol, this President, has! His unpredictable rhetoric, and behavior, seems to confuse his opponents, while motivating/ inspiring his core supporters, behind him!
3. Facts: We should all be concerned, because this President and his spokespeople (enablers), articulate a message, which states, he articulates, alternative facts! In the past, we have referred to these, especially, when they were glaring, angry, oppositional, and constantly disproven! While we are all entitled, to our opinions, we aren’t allowed the luxury, of having our own set of facts!
4. Prejudice: Regardless of what, we call it, these behaviors are, forms of prejudice, etc! America will only, remain relevant, and sustainable, when we prioritize, being the land of the free, with equal rights, liberty, and justice, for all!
We are experiencing, concerning, confusing, challenging times! Wake up, America, and proclaim, you’ve had enough, and you’re not going to accept the status quo, of hatred and bigotry, any more!
