In my piece on Break Room Chat and the Rule of Law, as I write about the ubiquitous rascism and othering that occurs at the point of interaction—regardless of policy—I note that we make a choice to say something, or not.
True as this is, observing over the last several years, I realize that there is another choice being made. That is, we speak up to affirm espoused values of whatever context we’re in, choosing to ignore the gap between espoused and lived values.
Our compulsion to belong, to be a part of “the group” extends to putting known reality aside so as to prove our willingness to conform and thereby gain favour, or influence, or at least to avoid bullying that comes with holding, even considering alternative perspectives.
When our grip on reality is shaken, we lose gravity. It becomes difficult, perhaps impossible, to discern anything as true or not true. Emotion rises far above rational thought and we are left vulnerable to manipulation to those who “know.” Faith is born.
We are ill-quipped to regain firm ground because the desire to do so is, in itself, evidence of personal failure to believe, a grievous flaw that if not corrected results in enmity, banishment.
I may be able to weave this in …
On a personal note, I write this observation from a place of grief so profound as to be debilitating at times. I see clearly how I must, myself, navigate these murky waters. Respite from anguished thought and analysis comes through actively doing positive, community building work. But this is no escape. The same issues are everywhere. For many, escape comes by tuning out. Worlds grow smaller, insulated, and thereby the problem replicates itself.
Much to ponder…your thoughts?