I admit that I can be quite sensitive sometimes.
The Floyd-related recent events have created a massive war / debate / hostility on social media. The hostility and disunity is something I'm pretty sensitive about. With some people's posts, even though their intentions are good, I can feel the condescending attitude behind the words. Or I can feel the guilt tripping even if others don't see it. Or, I sometimes wonder at some elaborate posts, if it's really genuine, or if people are just trying to seem virtuous on social media.
It took me until last Friday to finally give up judging. I still judge, but after momentarily judging, I try to step back and be like: whatevers, everyone I know is basically on the same "side" regardless of method. I may disagree with their methodology or nuanced opinions, but we all want racism to end, so that's enough for me.
It's kind of like Christianity. There are different denominations and different specific theologies. Like are you more Calvinist or Armenian? These things are not core
And I know that even though it may lead to "disunity", speaking out your opinions on BLM is good for the movement. Saying things like "silence is betrayal" can come off condescending or like you're trying to guilt trip people into posting black squares on Instagram, but in the end, it may push people out of their comfort zone. So, I would say the method or intention is questionable but the result is good, so I'm okay with it. And I do recognize that their comments are more targeted towards Corporations that have traditionally been silent, and I do agree that Corporations should be bullied into not being silent. But I do agree with Mark Zuckerberg on his stance to not remove Trump's tweets. Because I believe social media platforms should be as unbiased as possible, so both "sides" can use it. Sidenote: I think it's dumb that every issue that occurs in America has to turn into "two sides" and be all political. This is supposed to be about justice not politics
So yea, usually in these hostile environments, I am mostly frustrated when people lack empathy, love and compassion. which is ironic, because in being frustrated with people who lack empathy, I myself am lacking empathy for the people I'm frustrated at. So it just reveals my bias in this situation.
One person at Church said that when discussing BLM stuff, we really need to create a safe space where someone can literally say "I don't believe racism exists" and not get blasted on for saying that. I was so touched that she said that, because she's the most woke person I know and feels very strongly about social justice related issues, but her wanting to create a safe place for ignorant people to voice their opinions shows so much love and patience. And I was truly very touched.
I felt very safe and loved, even though she was not speaking about me.
On the other hand, when people talk about ignorant people in a condescending / dismissive way, and say they don't even have patience for them, it makes me very annoyed.
But in being frustrated with these people's lack of empathy, I also realize that I forget I need to empathize with them too. None of our hearts have the capacity of Jesus' heart towards us.
