symbiosis
Lives lost. Hearts broken. Grief. Confusion. Anger. Hurt. Betrayal. These emotions seem to be the theme of our nation this week. To see children brutally murdered and hear of morbid stories of how apathy and selfishness played their roles in this senseless tragedy stirs up every negative emotion known to mankind. People with any shred of decency should be ROCKED to their moral cores. Yes, we can blame others and point fingers. There are corporations and politicians and law enforcement officers who can be blamed. What will result from the blame game? The giant evil elephant in the room has roots that cannot be ripped up from the outside. Amendment 2. The “good ole boys” of Amendment 2 just want their freedom to bear arms… how do you argue with the rights of a freedom? (I’m stating this as devil’s advocate…) Even if it’s been historically misaligned with evil intentions and murder. Even if it’s been backed by deep pockets of wealth and political manipulation. Maybe it’s a time to leverage the roots of evil to step into what’s pure and right… it’s a time for symbiosis.
There are five kinds of symbiosis, and these symbiotic relationships are very different, based on which species benefits the most and whether they can live without each other. However, each one allows an ecosystem to reach a sustainable balance. Think about that in terms of Amendment 2, the NRA, and those of us who want a peaceful, safe world for our children. An ecosystem to reach a sustainable balance.
We need to create a bridge over very passionate beliefs about gun ownership and use to find a middle ground that protects everyone. This will involve not a lot of compromise for some but increased humility and compassion for life for others.
We need to educate more about mental health. Politicians and school boards need to strip away partisan bias from the concept of social-emotional learning. The children of the world were scarred from the pandemic. They need help. The violence in schools will only increase if we don’t get help for these children. We need to bridge over the accusations of teachers brain-washing children and learn to trust and respect teachers.
If we fight hate with hate, this does not mutually attain a sustainable balance that protects lives. We must reach out in love, understanding perspectives, and the willingness to listen before we speak.
Can the powers that be do this at this point? I guess it’s up to each of us to model and guide them to the next step of symbiosis.
