Can We Stop “Shouting” Please?

Calling all peacemakers. An invitation for us to move from opposition and outrage, to understanding and unity

Hi beautiful being,

Although I only spend a bit of time on social media, mainly just scan the online newspaper’s “frontpage” headlines, and don’t watch the news—I’ve been deeply troubled lately. Have you ever known someone—or been the person—in an abusive, codependent, narcissistic, gaslighting, and/or volatile relationship? In far too many ways, that’s what it seems like the social fabric of America has devolved to; and it’s tearing me up inside.

I’ve witnessed people on the Left completely cutting ties with those on the Right, Trump supporters shaming and vilifying those who disagree with their views, progressives scapegoating conservatives in much the same way, and a whole lot of fear. It reminds me of two people yelling and screaming at each other. And do you know what’s not happening when both sides are shouting? Any listening, understanding, empathizing, compromising, or coming toward one another.

(From Inspiring Quotes)

Now, it’s important to point out many of you might fall into a third category—like I do. Those who are largely silent on the matter. Naturally, we have good reasons for this. We want to keep the peace. We’d rather focus on the positive aspects of life. We figure if we keep our heads down long enough, so to speak, this storm will eventually pass. And so on. Yet, here’s the thing: The fear and anger that is being so freely bandied about, is infecting us. Their destructive energies are slowly dragging us all down—twisting and tormenting our hearts and minds. We’re swimming in a “sea” of fear and anger, whose tides—eventually—land us on the shores of giving up, picking a side, or checking out altogether.

Do you know what I mean, friend?

Do you see how this applies to so much more than politics?

That said. Fortunately, there is—at least—one other option. A path some of you are likely already on. The way of the peacemaker and truth teller. Honestly, as I write this, I’m realizing the two are like Siamese twins. They go together. The thing is:

Peace must be built on truth, or else it won’t last. And the truth needs to be told peacefully—otherwise, it won’t “land” in people’s hearts. You can’t have one without the other.

Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde showed us a beautiful example of what this looks like at the post-inauguration prayer service. She calmly told President Trump—and everyone else present—an essential truth about Jews and Christians: They are people who look after, protect, and take care of the outsiders, overlooked, aliens, and downtrodden—even if they’re not legally in their land.

Please know, I purposefully picked this example, knowing full well it will likely upset some Christians I know. Why? I did so because; Rev. Budde telling the most powerful person in the world something she knew he’d disagree with, gives us the key to the unity castle. Un-comfortability.

Difference, disagreement, and dissent makes us uncomfortable. The key to doing life together well, is realizing feeling uncomfortable is not the same as feeling unsafe. Mistaking the two is a huge reason why we’re in the mess we’re in. This means, instead of shouting at and/or moving away from the person/people who make you uncomfortable, our sacred invitation is to move toward them. To curiously seek understanding. To build the unity we long for—by embracing the difference, disagreement, and dissent it includes.

Oh my word friend, this one was a struggle to write. It was like wrestling a giant python into submission, if that’s even a thing. That said, where did this take you? What would you add? What are you taking away? I am SO passionate about this topic, and cannot wait to “hear” from you in the comments!

Hugs & Love,

Lang (aka “Dr. Love”)

P.S. Did you know that clicking the “like” button 🤍 helps other people find this post—while bringing a smile to my face? Also, if you think this could aid anyone, please consider sharing and/or “restacking” it. And above all, remember: You are amazing, and I hope you have a beautiful day!