on choice and social justice
Pause
Think
Research
Think
Choose
Think
Stand
I should continue the ‘in-tune series… but human behavior and the climate we live in has left me perplexed. Humanity and character are intricate concepts and they have led me to think that “choice” has been misrepresented and misunderstood. In case you haven’t noticed, I have lots of thoughts floating around in my head.
An early literary dilemma that an English major faces is the theme of fate vs free will. Almost every tragedy requires an inquiry into the forces beyond and within the control of the character that falls. It’s not clear most times. For instance, in the case of Oedipus in the play Oedipus Rex, the case may swing either way because there is evidence for both fate and free will. As much as we argue for fate, the case for free will holds water.
Thus, on free will or choice…
The last year (2020) seemed like an avalanche of social justice issues were unleashed on the world. There are still cases being raised on social issues. And in the midst of all this, I have noticed a trend of offense and noise. The real thinkers and doers are not as loud but seemingly empty barrels are making the loudest noise, and consistently too.
What do I mean? In my experience, friends of mine that were caucasian during the BLM movement did not need to release statements saying they stood with black people or me. They didn’t have to because they had chosen for equal treatment of black people a long time before. If your repeated actions and history do not show evidence that you really stand for something, releasing a statement does nothing. On the other hand, there are individuals taking offense for perceived social wrongs and others that are taking up the mantle and standing with them. They have chosen to stand with them and here lies my puzzlement.
I cannot fail to remember Quasimodo, which I watched again recently. Cloude Frollo’s character and choices stood out to me and seem similar to the approach of social justice internet vigilantes that utilize wiles to promote their agendas and choices. And I type this because I find it hard to understand why an individual would attack another solely because they desire acceptance. And I don’t mean acceptance of the individual, I am black and I hope I am accepted in any society despite my race. However, I make choices to be loud at inappropriate times and that’s a choice that my neighbours are not obligated to accept. I can argue that my nationality dictates that I be loud and I was born this way but this does not in any way mean that my loudness is not in poor taste.
In essence, why does anyone need to choose to support your choices? You are an individual after all. If you make a choice, be open to opinions that disagree, but you are still in-charge of yourself and you have control and power to stand by your choice. It’s yours after all. Right?
Question to ponder:
There are two or more sides to a story. How much should you know before you choose a side?
I have taken time to pause and reflect. Have you?
While you’re at it, when you make a choice make sure it meets the following criteria:
Philippians 4:8 ESV. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Thank you for taking time to read this week.
~ Oluwatomisin Oyegoke ~