fear factor

(In light of the recent murder of Dr. Tiller and the affect it has on me at my internship, I thought I would share a few thoughts that I have been consumed by lately.)

We live in a crazy world. I realize that this is not new news or anything, but sometimes I am really thrown for a loop with what goes on. People are always going to disagree on certain topics, like abortion or immigration, but is violence really the answer? No. It is not or is it ever the the answer, yet people resort to it. But by killing or hurting someone else, you are not helping your cause. In fact you are probably hurting it because it is always the few extremists that lead to the use of labels and stereotypes, which in the end hurt us all.

I never thought I would be in the position where violence could maybe be used on me just for my beliefs or support of an issue or at least not this soon in life. I thought I lived in America where we have freedom of speech among other civil liberties and therefore should respect other's opinions and ideas because they are legally allowed to have them. I thought that is what makes America great. Maybe I just need to move away, but I am also convinced that every place has its problems. I am also convinced that other places are more tolerant of others and their views too...I just need to find said places and get the hell out of here.

The truth is, I am kind of drawn to controversial topics though and want to contribute to understanding and tolerance and possible change in the world. I can't help it; I want to make a difference just like so many others do or have done. I don't know the exact path that I will take, but I have a feeling I'm very close to it or maybe even on it. And although I do value my safety and life very highly, I refuse to let fear run my life.

Peace.