Columnist Bob B. Bridge
I’ve been pondering if an end to the turbulence our society has experienced in recent years is finally drawing near. Can you see a light at the end of the tunnel?
Maybe just a flicker?
I cannot. We are swamped in a pool of self-righteousness.
We believe our society is stained, tainted. Our optimism has faded.
No sense in sugarcoating it. This disgusting divide has been as implacable as an invisible wall comprised of bricks.
We keep hoping it will disappear. So far, our efforts have been futile, no match for its resistance.
In a nutshell, we are bedeviled by dissension.
Sour demeanors drip with sarcasm. Self-righteous souls, enthusiastic fans of their own wit and wisdom, strike out, spewing guilt, shame and recriminations.
Unless you are residing in a fortified castle surrounded by a mammoth moat, you are susceptible. Blaming others who believe differently isn’t likely to resolve this.
It is time to mend fences, to establish rapport, not rivalries.
The best we can do is remain vigilant and ... kind.
Temper your tone. Sassy, mean-spirited commands aren’t likely to be obeyed. No one likes to feel as though they are stupid, the mere nadir of existence.
Don’t let these spats spiral out of control.
I’ve taken the time these last two months to reflect and also reprioritize for the future. My immediate conclusion is to realize neither Donald Trump nor Joe Biden are potential saviors.
Frankly, I appreciate Otis Redding’s suggestion to “try a little tenderness.”
My parting advice to my beloved nieces and nephews is: Strive to be remembered for your kindness.
D and I are heading to “Deer Creek” soon to enjoy yet another James Taylor concert. Among his legendary lyrics are these memorable lines:
“Shower the people you love with love, show them the way you feel. Things are going to be much better … if you only will.“
Won’t you give it a try?
Contact Columnist Bob Bridge at 812-276-9646 or bbbbbridge@gmail.com.
Sent from my iPhone
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