Psychology of humans reveals that the mind seeks to simplify. The mind gathers information in easy stereotypes. Problems are either one thing or the other. No complexities. Good or evil. Right or wrong. Further investigation often must amend simplistic assessments.
A current example is for some to see First Amendment protesters in the death of George Floyd by an officer of the Minneapolis Police Department to be fully responsible for the after-sundown looting and destruction in cities across the United States, including Aurora and Naperville, Sunday and Monday, respectively.
The mind may want to see it as black and white in reference to mayhem participants. Yet, compelling initial evidence reveals that although a few protesting demonstrators may have been involved, even more were geographical outsiders. Individuals may have had no interest in legitimate protests, but, rather in destruction. Some looters may have responded following the lead of those seeking to break windows and cause property damage. Some looters’ purposes were to divide non-protesters and protesters, to seek to heap blame on African Americans, to heighten the rift in the country.
Some rioters possess political agendas, left and right, and some eschew any political affiliations. As a society we may learn more over time. Investigators are examining and should determine the depth of organized participation.
We must be careful to examine the facts. It was unfortunate that president Donald Trump, following U.S. attorney general William Barr’s irresponsible announcement that a left wing political group, Antifa, must be designated a terrorist with the implication that it took part in the destructive riots. Right-wing groups likely were involved as well and it is premature to say one element was involved and its opposite element was not involved.
Pointing such fingers is in keeping with simplistic assessment without offering evidence. There is little clear-cut evidence there was only one faction involved. Similarly, television coverage revealed there were as many or more white individuals setting fires and causing destruction than blacks. There should be no finger-pointing at those involved in the Black Lives Matter movement in an effort to cause a divide. There is much work to be done to heal in many directions. Solutions must be the aim.
Clear and concise, week 22:
Given the recent social circumstances in our country and in our communities, we have taken the task (as opposed to being tasked, ugh) for inspirational messages from dark chocolate wrappers:
• A smile is the quickest way to brighten a room.
• Don’t wait for sleep to start dreaming!
• Be fearless and authentic!