Missive Four
To My Darling Children:
TRIBE |trīb| noun. A social division in a traditional society consisting of families or communities linked by social, economic, religious, or blood ties, with a common culture and dialect, typically having a recognized leader.
We are all tribal. We largely define ourselves by our membership in differing groups. We separate ourselves from each other by our identifications of race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, gender, social station, wealth (or lack thereof), interests, agendas and so-called values.
I am this. You are that. You are 'The Other'. I am not you.
Why does this matter? Because we use those differences against each other. They cause conflict, bigotry, oppression and war. They breed misunderstanding and lead to fear, mistrust and hatred.
This goes against the idea that we are all equal. We are, of course, not. We are smart and stupid. Good and bad. Talented and not. On and on.
There are many who have labored long and hard in the fight for 'equality'. I believe that is the wrong battle. We should recognize our inherent differences and, instead, fight for acceptance, tolerance and justice. My generation marched for equal rights - women's rights, civil rights, gay rights. They were the right fights for their time. Change came, albeit slowly, but nonetheless.
And yet, in your generation, I see a persistence of racism and misogyny. Prejudice continues to be passed down from father to son, mother to daughter. Mistrust and misunderstanding are learned behaviors. Sadly, it seems every generation has to start anew in overcoming wrong thinking for themselves.
So, know that ignorance will always be your true enemy. Approach 'The Other' with a brave and fearless willingness to understand. You will not find all to be acceptable. But, you will find peace in embracing acceptance.
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