The stories that flooded the news of hatred and racism were devastating. In the light of the riots full of hatred that have created divisions, it has become even more essential for our community to come together as one. Being in a community means being able to say to someone, “I see you, and you see me.” It also means being able to recognize another person, recognize their problems, and recognize what they are going through. It means being able to go to a person and simply listen to them. Therefore, listen to a friend. Listen to a stranger. Listen to someone else. Let someone else share, and hear what they have to say. It is vastly important to be willing to step into someone else’s circle and see the world from their point of view.
Furthermore, being part of a community means caring about things another person cares about. Although events may not personally affect us, they may hurt a friend or a fellow person in our community. Therefore, it is something that needs to be discussed. This is not something to be talked about in hushed voices; problems can not be solved if they are swept under rugs. We must actively speak out against the hatred and injustice. In the midst of division, we must foster a community where we not only listen to one another but advocate for one another.
