Sifting

Yes, sifting through a lot of things lately. What’s important? What’s not important? What’s big versus what’s little? But then, how many littles make up a big? Hmmm.

Lots of snubs and shrugs add up to insensitivity. Insensitivity accumulates to incivility. Incivility amasses into outbursts both vocal and physical. When does all of this amount to a society out of control?

No wonder traffic laws and rules of good behavior lapse into rudeness, hot tempers and road rage. And that doesn’t come close to traffic accidents and road deaths.

Facebook insults and dissing easily become disrespect and intolerance. On view every day, we become inured to bad behavior and soon self-pride veers into supremacy. And that devalues those who deserve pride and worth.

Being different from the norm is often an allure in the world of fashion. Same with design of cars, architecture and interior décor. Just the right difference makes the style-fad-chic definition. Too much and it becomes grotesque. Reviled.

What is the balance? When does a person earn the right to be different without criticism and shaming?

Ask that question of an African-American, male or female. Ask that of a gay person, known or not. And what of the immigrant, the old, young and poorly dressed?

When do we value each and every one of us? When do we realize the genius within each person? Do we even suspect that person needs our help to unlock the genius within and hope it will burst forth to benefit all mankind?

Sifting through the big things to find the little ones. Those are the bits and pieces that add up to who and what we truly are.

How many immigrants brought their art and skills to American shores to build great buildings, compose symphonies, sing arias that brought us to our knees sobbing? How many immigrants help us relive history to the extent we realize how it mattered then, and now?

We demean one person and we destroy our own humanity. And worth.

Remember that the next time you see someone you think might be lesser than yourself. Think on that before losing your edge of decency.

Our melting pot is rich with possibility. Love each bit of it. Let its influence and worth blend into our stew. It welcomes the newcomer. It enlarges our self-being.

March 31, 2022