“The unconscionable is possible when, over the years, we’ve normalized violent rhetoric, mocking, bullying, and the demonization of others.” (Eugene Cho)
Whatever you think is unconscionable, consider how we (not them, whomever that is, because you need to include yourself in the equation) have normalized all the things in the above quote and how that’s impacted the current situation. Because likely, whatever you think is unconscionable that is happening is not new. It might seem new, but if you look at its core, it has likely been happening in some form for years and longer.
Next, consider what others believe is unconscionable. Even though you disagree with them, go through the same process. How has normalizing the above impacted the current situation?
Perhaps most importantly, consider what can happen if we continue the cycle of normalized violent rhetoric, mocking, bullying, and the demonization of others? Again, it is a we topic, not a them. So many people want to declare, “If they would just do/not do __________, we could all get along better” or move on or whatever we think the next step should be.
If the police would…
If the minorities would…
If the majority would…
If the politicians would…
If the wealthy would…
If the poor would…
If the church would…
If the community would…
If my neighbors would…
If my spouse would…
This is an us topic. You are likely tired of the violent rhetoric, mocking, bullying, and demonization of others. Most are. But it didn’t happen overnight, and it’s not going to go away anytime soon. But what we do today matters. Refuse to see it as a “somewhere else” issue. There are people in your circle—and perhaps yourself—speaking in inflammatory ways, blaming, spewing.
Stop. If it’s you (in any form, even in your thoughts), invite accountability. Be honest with yourself and at least one other person. If you see it in people around you, respectfully call it out and speak truth into the situation. You might not like conflict, but do you prefer what’s happening around us? Many times, you won’t get as much resistance as you expect. Sometimes all it takes is a redirection to pause the rant.
What do you want the world to look like in years to come? Start today.
For my Christian friends, let me share another quote from the same author as above: “To some, you’re too conservative. To others, you’re too liberal. To be a Christ follower is to be faithful amid tension. To stay engaged, to remain hopeful, to love anyway, to walk with integrity, and to bear witness to the love, mercy, and grace of Christ. this is becoming increasingly difficult, but such is our call as followers of Jesus. It’s not merely what we believe but also how we engage.” (emphasis added)
Pure Purpose 