FASCISM: Live with those different from ourselves

“Hatred is never quelled by hatred in this world. It can only be soothed through loving-kindness. This is an ancient truth.” This saying, attributed to the Buddha around 500 BC, holds as much relevance today as it did then. Our society is becoming overwhelmed with language that incites animosity toward others, fueling the anger of so many. But to what ends?

What attracts so many people to events that disdain and demonize their fellow human beings? Is it reminiscent of junior high, when teens nervously clung to the “in crowd” that surrounded the bullies to avoid becoming victims themselves?

Ronald Reagan is purported as saying “If fascism ever comes to America, it will come in the name of liberalism.” However, images of January 6, 2021, depicted it wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross.

The danger of the “in crowd” is that when all of the “outsiders” are vanquished, it begins to feed upon itself. Living with those who seem different from ourselves can be challenging, but it can also yield much richer rewards.

ERNEST WARNER

Coeur d'Alene