Today, while I was working, I happened to have the TV on, and I was very saddened to learn that the phrase “Hitler was right” was posted online 70,000 times last year. I quickly played it back to see if I was wrong, and after searching it on Google, I found a statement from the Anti-Defamation League. In a society where hate speech and intolerance are on the rise, these are not meaningless words. Rather, they are a reminder of the atrocities committed by one of the most horrific and abhorrent dictators in history. It is incomprehensible to me that anyone would use such words, much less share them with the world.
The world seems to be becoming more and more divided, at least in the last 50 years of my life. Political, religious and cultural imbalances are often cited as justification for intolerance and prejudice. The rise of nationalist movements, the prevalence of Islamophobia and the persistence of structural racism are all evidence of this. In these circumstances, it is understandable that some people vent their frustration and anger through extremism and hate speech. They are driven not by love but by fear.
Hate speech is certainly unpleasant. But it is also potentially deadly. Words spoken can incite violence and fan the flames of fear and hatred. Hate speech can be used to make entire populations seem less than human, which can incite further acts of terrorism. That is why we need to speak out against prejudice and bigotry of all kinds.
But how do we achieve this? It's as simple as learning to love ourselves and each other. It's easy to dismiss this as overly simplistic, but it's actually quite revolutionary. Love is not just an emotion, it's a state of being. It's a commitment to always act with empathy and consideration for others. In a world where people actively choose to love one another, tolerance, inclusion and justice can all flourish.
Of course, talking about love is easier than actually practicing it. To do so, we must set aside our preconceived notions and judgments about people who are different from us and listen to and learn from them. Love requires tolerance, compassion, and an open heart. It requires us to expose ourselves emotionally and risk being hurt or rejected. It may go against our strongest religious beliefs and even against the ways of thinking that were perhaps ingrained in us from childhood. But the benefits of true human connection are immeasurable. When we choose to love one another, we create a world full of wonder and meaning.
Let us all resolve to love one another. Let us collectively condemn prejudice and all kinds of hate speech. Let us join forces as brothers and sisters of humanity. Let us strive for a world free of prejudice and intolerance. In this way, we can leave the Earth in a better state for our children and grandchildren. We can truly build a heaven on Earth where we can live in self-reliance and peace.
A'ho Namaste creates Peace Movement content and this information is not provided by medical professionals and is for educational and informational purposes only. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding mental or physical issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.
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