Medical Students in Washington Give us the Finger

Vitriol and vituperation - there is no better way to learn than through passion versus passion. Etchings are created with acid. Our memories are shaped by the hatred we've seen. Conflict is a mighty teacher, perhaps greater than the law, as it burns impressions deep into us. It helps us look at a matter from one side or the other. The bright light of zeal shines on the objects of our senses spelling out to us clearly what they are.

Or so it seems.

The politics of hate do offer a sense of certainty. It doesn't matter what side of a battle we are on. We are definitely on a side.

But there is a problem. We've stopped listening. We gather up more and more weapons to throw at our enemy as we fight. We try to out-shout our opponent. We hope to earn the allegience of any who would sit on the fence - those precious "undecideds."

Having a cause to fight for gives us a sense of purpose in life. We no longer just take up space and pay bills. We can leave the planet a better place than how we found it. We imagine God is pleased with us.

But is He? In the final analysis is your fight really worth the price you are paying? And are you really going about it the most effective way? Further, if per chance you win your war do you have a good post-war plan? What will become of your enemies? What will become of you?

Those who sit on the fence come in a number of forms. First, there are the completely ignorant. Then there are those who just don't care and probably never will. Neither of these two groups is likely to ever listen to you. And if they ever did, exactly what would they be able to contribute to your cause? There are two other groups that are undecided - (1) those who are afraid to enter the battle because they have peaceful temperments they don't wish to upset. And (2) those who are honestly looking at both sides of your issue precisely because they do care. Among this group there may be some who are actually battling against you at this time. They fight but they also reconsider. A tiny voice inside them says they may be wrong after all.

What this means is that to be effective in your fight it might be wise to put down your weapons and simply speak the truth in love. Those who require peace as a prerequisite to involvement will have a door opened to them, even if ever so slowly by your example. Those who require more information will gain it if you provide them with the proper resources.

Now if resources are lacking, then maybe you ought to reconsider your battle. Again, are you listening or just shouting? Make sure you are listening. How tragic it would be if at the end of your life you discovered you had fought for the wrong cause. Examine the resources of your enemy. Don't burn them. Learn from them. You may find that the way of peace is the way to victory.

Less cost. Greater effect. Now that's good news!