Extremism is everywhere. Radicalism has become the phrase of the last 10 years and is reflected in how we are reacting to events of the day. When did those terms become so filled with hate?
I remember growing up in a much different world where there was extreme kindness toward each other. Where "pay it forward" was the action of the day and to be "Rad" meant you were making a positive change in either your own life or the lives of others.
Where are the leaders who have the heart of our founding fathers? Where are the voices that say we can rise above this tide of negativity that is downing our spirts, our hopes, and our dreams? Where are the supporters of what is good instead of spewing hate, vengeance, and pain?
Recent shootings in two states has created a firestorm of anger, but it's not directed at the shooters. The shootings are being used for political gain and to sway voters toward or against specific agendas. My heart goes out to the families who are caught in the crosshairs of politics while they morn the loss of a child or loved one. I pain over the fighting that brings only more hate and pain and does nothing to comfort those left behind.
We lack leadership in this country, but it's not from the politicians that I look for it. We need leaders in the homes, in the workplace, and in the schools. A real grassroots uprising where we are bringing people together, not tearing us apart. Where we include everyone in the solution, not take sides. Were we focus on problems and not on personal gain. Jesus said it best:
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13:13 New International Version (NIV)
Instead of buying into the hate culture of today, let us instead be extreme in our faith, in the way we give hope, and let's be radical in the way we love.