OPPOSING VIEWS: Held by those created by same source

A black-and-white mentality can provide two ways of perceiving things: What do I hold dear and what do I abhor? But life isn’t that simple. In philosophy is the concept that things are known by that which contrasts with them. Such as cold, being known by heat, smooth being known by rough, light being known by darkness, etc. And then there are those elements of life that fall in between those bookends, much like the colors of a rainbow, or the shades of gray as day becomes night. The intricacies of creation can be overwhelming.

I will admit there are those that I respond to with frustration and anger. But I have to give them credit for the simple fact that they help me realize that which I hold dear. It is not so much them that I respond negatively to, but the ideas and beliefs that they would impose upon others who do not share their worldview.

The increasing population of our globe, the struggles imposed by the impacts of climate change, the ravages of war, and the ability to move to other areas that might hold more promise are shaping new neighbors within communities. This brings fear to many while others are more welcoming. Logically, and as told in scripture, there is only one source for all of creation. If I truly honor that source, should I not also honor all of creation?

ERNEST WARNER

Coeur d’Alene