White Lives Black Lives

Recent events have thrown American society into turmoil. Two more murders of black men by white policemen. Five more murdered cops and seven wounded police by one angry, heavily armed black man. Nationwide protests against the violence against blacks evolve into protests against the attacks on the police.

The backdrop behind all of it a riotously angry populace armed to the teeth and looking for scapegoats.

Fact: until Black Lives Matter it is impossible for All Lives to Matter.

Fact: even the most empathetic, well-intentioned "Caucasians" cannot possibly live the reality of Black life in America.

Fact: human beings of good will have been striving to "fix" racism in America since this nation's founding.

Fact: the battle is long, hard and bloody but if we are to survive as the nation we love, we must never cease the striving.

I refuse to wallow in guilt for my white skin. It makes me better than no one but neither does it, of itself, make me less. This is the role to which I was born and the one with which I must face the world and live my life.

I will save my guilt for my lapses in humanity, kindness and understanding of others - be they the same as I or different.

I will save my guilt for my lack of commitment to a free, equal society.

And I will strive to reject hatred and embrace love if I can, but at the minimum embrace understanding.

I will not pray to a god in whom I do not believe (though the temptation is strong). I will work in the best way in which I am capable for unity, not division; for friendship not hate; for understanding, not fear.

July 9, 2016