It’s impossible not to notice the way the world has devolved into a contest of heroes vs. villains. We cheer and boo based on the red meat so easily provided by politicians and the news media. Social media, based on unknown algorithms, feeds us a constant stream of excitement. The ‘cheering and booing’ have become the focal point of life.
But here we are, dealing with the flavor of the week. Regardless of what side of the political divide, there are plenty of things to ‘snack’ on. However, we have lived through events like the assassinations of JFK, MLK, RFK, Vietnam, Kent State, Watergate, Challenger disaster, Persian War(s), Oklahoma City bombing, 9/11, and the 1/6 Insurrection.
Who the heroes and villains are depends on your point of view and what you believe. At this stage of life, I hope there is a perspective that brings us to find moderation rather than extremism in all things. Finding ways to seek a middle ground to come together, rather than move in opposite directions, should be our gift to those who see only one perspective.
To clarify, I am not saying that there is a middle ground when it comes to racism, antisemitism, or other forms of hate that target groups based on ethnicity, religion or lifestyle.
Our jobs should be to find ways to help create a conversation that is not antagonistic, not divisive, but use our experience and wisdom to come together. That, to me, is heroic and we need heroes right now.
