It's a real tragedy, what happened in Charlottesville just two weeks ago. Sadly, this is not the first time that something like this has happened. Just look through American history and even in recent years for proof. Hate and racism are things that have been part of America ever since it was founded, and it seems that not everyone thinks that it has overstayed its welcome.
I grew up in a family that taught me at a very early age that everyone comes from different backgrounds. It probably helped that I happen to be a member of a minority, so maybe that made it easier for me to accept people for who they are. I will admit, though, that I have said some pretty ignorant things when I didn't know any better. I'm glad I grew out of that, but there are still many people out there who think that saying and doing certain things is still acceptable.
As people become more aware of who everyone is and where they come from, they become afraid. Once they believe that one thing is better than everything else, they feel threatened when a new thing "wants to take its place." It's toxic to think this way, however. A mindset like this just causes brews hatred and contempt. Wake up, America. Things may have improved, but there are things still very wrong in our society. My optimistic self dreams of a world where everybody gets along and accepts everyone for who they are, and that is very achievable. That is, only if people pass along a mindset of acceptance and love.
But is everyone going to do that right this very second? Probably not. But, I can do what I can to make the oppressed feel loved and accepted by being their ally and their friend. And that's what I plan to do. I am also going to make sure that my children learn to accept everyone for who they are and that there is no "superior way of existing." The Virginia governor said it best, "To the white supremacists, go home."
I can only do so much. I am only one person after all. But I am determined that there is a place for love in our messed up society. It may not happen for a long time, but if we start planting those seeds now, the future we dream of may be closer than we think. Love and acceptance, those are the two things that will stop Charlottesville from happening again.