Today–at least in politics–people have become plainly nasty, without respect for other human beings. Today in politics, many make up lies about their competition to demean them and ruin their reputations. They say its because they love others. But viciousness certainly does not come from love. In this case, it comes from fear. Fear that emerges from greed. Fear that their competition is winning. Fear that something they have will be taken from them if that happens. And their fear is inhibiting the growth of America and wounding our national legacy.
The Youngbloods were an American band from the 1960’s and 70’s. Despite receiving critical acclaim, they never achieved widespread popularity. Their only U.S. Top 40 entry was “Get Together.” The song was written by an earlier band, The Kingston Trio. Listen to some of the lyrics in that song.
Love is but a song we sing
Fear’s the way we die
Americans have become more and more pliable due to social media. They are encouraged to group and take sides and when they do, they are encouraged to harm, in any way they can, the opposing side. To be called a “nasty person” does not even phase them. They wear the label as a badge.
But when the group acts in a vile way–a way he/she would never undertake alone–are they personally excused from the results? Does the end justify the means?
Nastiness to others is a serious offense to humanity. And spiritually, we will personally be held responsible for it.
Some may come and some may go
He will surely pass
When the one that left us here
Returns for us at last
We are but a moment’s sunlight
Fading in the grass
Each one of us is fading, whether we be eighteen or eighty. Each one of us is the leader of our own life, its goodness and its evil. We will not be judged as a group. We will be judged individually.
You hold the key to love and fear
All in your trembling hand
Just one key unlocks them both
It’s there at your command
Translating a World on the Edge 