Friday; March 15

One of the troubling things I have found in today’s society might be called the “polarization phenomena”.  I am sure there is some other name for it, but it is a belief that to be true to our commitments we have to fervently choose one side or the other.  Through the years we have seen this in our sports teams (we like all of “our” players and will defend them no matter how poorly they perform or how bad they act), but this type of mindset has crept into more important things such as political agendas and moral beliefs.  The only way we can be true to our core beliefs is if we completely accept everyone who stands with us and shun anyone who isn’t as committed (radical) as our group.  For example, all liberals are good and all conservatives are bad (or visa-versa).  As such, only certain news networks are truthful, only certain spokespeople are reputable, only certain political parties (or sub-parties) are worthwhile.  Another example is that only those who completely take a hardline stance on my particular moral issue are right, everyone else is not only wrong, they are also evil.  Interestingly, in an effort to promote this thought-process, we are quick to blast the failings of those on the other side, while at the same time willing to forgive (or ignore) the missteps of those on our side.  In essence, we are willing to draw a line in the sand and refuse to accept anyone outside that line but almost instinctively support those in our group.
While there are several problems with this phenomena, one of the most damaging is that we become blind to the bad on our side and the good in others.  Despite the warning of the Wise Man of the Old Testament, “To show partiality to the wicked is not good, nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment.” (Proverbs 18:5) we accept actions and wisdom strictly by partisan lines. 
Let’s focus on the common sense that takes things at face value.  Let’s praise the good and point out the bad in all people and philosophies.  When we do that, we can all be better as we work towards what is best for everyone.
          Think About It!

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