“Hate Is The Answer”
Said no one
Got nothing against good competition,
playing fields level, losing and winning.
Stoking division’s not really sporting,
they’re-bad distorting, we-hate-them spinning.
Stop vilifying — a back-to-ideas beginning!
Who’s going to start — being part of the solution? Rational debate has given way to labeling supposed adversaries, dehumanizing groups, and vilifying anyone who offers a different idea, a counter argument, or heaven forbid, speaks truth to power.
The ability to think critically has been replaced by listening to talking heads who affirm ( as opposed to challenge) one’s beliefs. Too often, they lead with hate — because if you’re conditioned to hate a person or group, then you’re not likely to listen to them, attempt to understand them, or empathize with their perspective and human experience.
It’s time for courage — the courage to be truly introspective, to understand how you got here, and how we got here — the courage to be part of changing the conversation to a discussion of ideas and not personalities — and the courage to actively oppose the vilifying of other humans (individuals and groups) by the talking heads on television, conspiracy theorists on social media, and even friends and family who forward “those emails.”
#StopVilifying #StopTheHate
Note: Wrath is one of the seven deadly sins and can be defined as uncontrolled feelings of anger, rage, and even hatred. Wrath often reveals itself in the wish to seek vengeance.
©2021 HHThorpe. All rights reserved.
Inspired by Nyaalo Mia’s virtuous poem, “Blood,” and prompt, “Sin.” Thanks to our hosts, Kathy Jacobs and me (🙃), and the rest of the talented Chalkboard team!
