​We’re The Closest To A Civil War Since 1865

If you have access to any sort of media, you're well aware that our nation is currently in mourning, we have lost too many lives, some don't make the headlines but others are sprawled across social media for millions to see. Specifically, I’m talking about the recent and unfortunate deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, and the 5 police officers in Dallas.

It hurts me to hear people say, “I understand both sides.” I think what bothers me the most is that there are “sides” at all. We are one nation under God, and to see that wholeness that keeps us together slowly crumble and fall apart makes me afraid of what is to come.

The definition of a civil war is “a war between citizens of the same country.” Though we aren't involved in an actual war, the tension between the citizens of the United States of America (emphasis on united) cannot be ignored. I’ve seen friends verbally attack each other on social media, people physically attack each other on the news and quite frankly I’ve seen people address hate with more hate. The people of this nation are turning against one another and pointing fingers instead of learning a lesson from all of this tragedy.

This could easily be the beginning of an era of terror and hate, or it can be an ending. As a young adult in America I believe our generation can be the change, actually, I believe any generation, present or future, can be the change. It’s up to us to make a difference, it may take a little more courage and faith to be a leader in today’s day and age, but the long term results will be so much more fulfilling than simply following the crowd and making decisions based on the opinions of others.

I think during this time of mourning and loss, we have to look at the situation without our blinders on. Yes, it’s easy to simply take one of the “sides,” but it’s so much more gratifying and constructive to look at the situation as a whole and put yourself in the place of others. The desire for life is so strong, and in no way should anyone fear their precious life because of the actions of another. We control our own actions, and with that being said we control our own reactions. I love this country and the people in it; my life matters, his life matters, her life matters, our life matters.