Social Justice

On the topic of social justice: The objective can be achieved if we work together and find the mutual benefit of our collaboration. I am reminded of the man cutting down the tree with a dull axe. A passerby suggests that he sharpen the axe to which he responds that he is in too much of a hurry to do that. We can continue to complain and pursue our own agenda or allow reason to prevail.

I recall my first year at Princeton. We were six sharing a suite. My roommate was of German descent and not happy to share a bunk in an area the size of a walk-in closet (6 feet wide by 10 feet long) with a Puerto Rican. In a moment of physical confrontation, I made it clear to him that I was there for my education and did not need his acceptance. I further clarified that after this moment in time we would probably never have to deal with each other again. That understanding held and maintained the peace.

If we rise above our petty inclinations, which are mostly driven by tradition, upbringing, or hermeneutics, we can achieve a greater purpose. Remember in a game of tug-of-war there is little movement unless a stronger force favors one side. If we pull together we can make a better future for the next generations that follow. It is difficult to see all the trees from within the forest, but step outside and see the abundance and variety. It’s our choice.