Hearing What We See
In today's society we have become very used to seeing violence and hearing vulgarities on television news and adult programming or regularly at the movie theater. In certain sports arenas we pay large ticket prices and expect to see physical brutality and harsh language as part of the performance from the individual athletes. We have all seen outbursts of rage and negativity associated with opposing political, religious and ethnic groups during periods of intense rivalry to survive. There can even be the isolated argument between best friends that elicits a swear word or two.
On Peace Portal Drive this past week a certain reader board that normally advertised inexpensive meals had now only one word carefully placed on both sides. I never heard of the word and trustfully assumed it was just an acronym for an expression I was not aware of. I have since learned that these four letters likely represent a truly vulgar expression targeted at another diner. Irregardless, civic displays viewed by countless residents and visitors (not to mention open minded children and impressionable teenagers) must advocate respectful behavior even between adversaries.
When we reach out and embrace our neighbors we see pictures that enhance everyday life in our own international community.
|
