Anger Abounds

Every so often, we learn of a kindness extended by an individual whose only comment to the recipient's "Thank you," is "Someday, pay-it-forward." What a wonderful concept. Just imagine a highly contagious epidemic of kindness sweeping a nation, which suffers from out-of-control anger, mean-spirited rhetoric and frequent violent behavior.

I hear and see reports road rage, air-flight rage, terrorist attacks, racial unrest, religious quarreling, hateful political rhetorical, all-time high spousal abuse and divorce. We have all types of hate crimes. Add to those disturbing realities a world filled with uncertainties. There is ongoing conflicts in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Venezuela and the never-ending turmoil between Israel and Palestine. That said, step back and attempt to wrap your head around these facts: 29-African countries are currently in conflicts with over 200 militias, guerrillas and other groups fighting. Europe finds 10-nations at war counting 81-different conflicts. Seven Middle East countries currently have wars with no fewer than 250-groups involved. The America's are not exempt. The America's have 6-countries fighting. Most of these conflicts are over 'drugs.' Here in our own America where we poltificate 'the greatest nation on earth,' we elect leaders from two political party's who refuse to cooperate with each other for 'the good of the order' and in the best interest of our people. How sad that in this 'so-called' Christian Nation greed and power comes before caring love.

The 24/7 cable news reporting of such negative and depressing information takes a psychological toll on people of the world. I believe it is important that we Americans NOT process this wrenching news through a self-centered filter. If nothing else, try to put yourself in the shoes of a mother and father who find themselves defined as refugees through no fault of their own. They are running for their lives, looking for food and shelter...their biggest problem of the day IS NOT arranging carpooling for their kids' soccer practice.

Perhaps for our own sanity, we need to seek and complete at least one weekly 'pay-it-forward act of kindness.'
(Touch)
Let it begin with me.