We went to see the "Help" with Tauna and Tim. A story of racism in the South. Looking around the theatre - all white people. All touched by the emotions and story of the impact of racism on the blacks during that time. We all were shocked this happened in our life time. Yes, we have come a long way. But, we still need to come further.
The movie spoke to me about some positions I hold. Evolutionary journey. A web and flow. Finger pointing at me. Begging for answers to positions I hold today. Do my positions impact real people? Does anyone really care what I think? Would I feel different if I understood their collective stories? I feel impacted...and convicted....
I have changed my position on abortion and gay marriage over the years. I was much more liberal when I first met Jamie. Lived my life my way. Independent, no defined core values, - seeking pleasure, money, and control - the master of my universe.
Even though I have changed my opinion on social matters as I have evolved as a spiritual person, as an individual, in a marriage, in my friendships -I belive in human rights. I believe we all have the right to accept accountability for our personal actions. On abortion I believe if people have the right to choose they should have the right to pay and be accountable for their actions. I don't want to pay for peoples mistakes. I don't think we should pay for abortion from Federal or State money. I believe tradition plays an important role in society. For gay marriage I have never fought against the basic human rights they seek. Only the name.
But are these positions intolerant? I can see how people would define me as intolerant and hypocrital because of these views. I get it. I accept it. My intention in not to be intolerant, but to be true to my values. Is it better to go along with the crowd to fit in and be accepted? Not for me! However, intention is different than perception, and I accept the risk of putting my views out in the universe. Hoping, that people who feel different will live their mantra of tolerance. Finding common ground in other areas. Or, just agreeing to disagree. Embracing someone else's view, however different from your own - and loving them anyway. Freeing!
How will history reflect back on the views of todays culture? Will we look back and say - I can't believe that happened in my lifetime? Only time will tell.
The kid's of each generation feel their parents are out of touch. We, the kids from the 60's felt the same way. This group know as the Baby Boomer's changed the world. True revolutionaries. But, today's generation sees us as old and out of touch. Desperate to be different. Sure they have figured it all out. Until, the next generation comes of age. And wants to define their world their way. Different than their parents. Then, the cycle of the generational divide, begins, yet again. Hopefully we become better with each generation. Only time will tell.
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