On Protests

Greetings Dear Reader,

I rarely venture into the political in my writing. Today, however, is different. I will not weigh in on the protests going on in Madison. I would like to point out some things that amaze me. Some are positive and some are not so much. In all of though, I am pleased that the exercise of rights around such a volatile issue has not resulted in any violence.

One of the things that I feel protestors, politicians, and pundits have never learned that hinders them is the approach they take. The television, internet, and signage are cluttered with all kinds of creative personal insults. This seems like a good tactic in the moment but does little to advance a cause. No matter who your opponent is or what they have done, treating them with respect is always a better way.

Insults and ad-homonym attacks on serve to polarize people. It limits the freedom to have open discourse and makes those hurling the insults seem weak to those who are undecided or neutral. On another level, it is just not nice. When we show disrespect to anyone we lower ourselves.

Another aspect of this that amazes me is the hard work of the municipal, county, and state police. I spoke with an officer yesterday who has worked 22 of the last 20 days. He works twelve hour shifts each day and has little time for his family.

If we extrapolate this to all the law enforcement personnel at the Capital then we must realize the danger to our society. One police veteran explained to me that the entire force is stretched thin. She pointed out that what they all need is a day of rest. Imagine the impact that it could have if the protestors agreed to take a day off just to give the people who protect them some rest.

There is so much to be gained from doing things peacefully. No matter which side of this argument you fall on, you should assure that you actions are not those of the fallen. Remember that with the freedom to excise our rights comes the responsibility to do so in an honorable way.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn
Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every scribe who has become a disciple of the kingdom of heaven is like a home owner. He brings new and old things out of his treasure store."