We are truly all in this together

To put it plainly, there is too much hate in the world. We recognize it in the killings, abuses, and injustices that fill our newspapers every day, and also in the words spoken in response to the news and the people who are subjects of the news. Very often we respond with as much hate as that of the person whose act or opinion we are condemning.

Perhaps we think we are being smart, clever, or right, or just so angry that we can sound off in equally violent terms, or maybe just to be part of the mainstream that is in opposition. Sometimes it's a self-serving or a political reaction meant to promote our point of view.

Whatever, these expressions of hate make us part of the problem. If there is hate in our heart, we are blocking a real solution because the problem is hate. When there is love in our heart, we are opening a door to a better way to solve a problem or to influence a person. When there is love in our heart we are also finding a way to cope with the turmoil that surrounds us, and to reduce its effects on others. It can also impel us to participate actively and positively in ongoing good works to create a peaceful and just world. We're all in it together.

To put it plainly, love is the change that we need.

Sally McMillan

Iowa City