Why can’t we get along? By Linda Stowe
In 1992 a video showing police officers mercilessly beating Rodney King set off a chain reaction that led to widespread riots in Los Angeles. In an attempt to heal the chasm and stop the violence, Rodney King went before the public with the plea, “Can’t we all just get along?”
His words didn’t work then and countless others attempting to heal divisions between warring interests have also failed. Why is that? Why can’t we get along? Those who study these things suggest that there are varying causes: differences in values and beliefs, misunderstandings that lead to resentment, competition for resources or attention, or simply personality differences.
As I look at this list, I can see how resolution might be reached in the first three causes. However, personality differences seem more challenging because the cause cannot easily be explained. There are many idioms that describe this situation: oil and water, chalk and cheese, night and day. Simply put, we just don’t like each other. But what about a solution?
My guess is that everyone has at least one person they have met whom they immediately disliked. Think about that person and find a way to nullify your negative feelings. I’m not saying you have to like them; I’m just suggesting that you not dislike them. Maybe if we all start with that person, we can eventually all get along.
~~~~~
Polly here.
Linda Stowe is so wise and has such a good heart. I loved every word of this.
Things seem so overwhelming when we look at those “differences” between people in our worlds. But Linda is right: If we can start small, with one little step, it can all begin.
It seems like we should all be able to get along. And yet? I have to admit I have a couple of people who completely rub me the wrong way. I bristle when they speak.
But. Since reading these words, I’ve been trying to let go of those negative feelings. I have work to do. But it is a start. Little beginnings.
