Self-made walls are hiding our dignity

We are not all equal in everything. And this is ok. As diversity is one of the beautiful qualities of humanity. Diversity of opinion, diversity of thought, diversity of appearance, diversity of ingenuity.

But what we as a country many times lose sight of, is that we are equal in at least one inherent right. We are equal in dignity. Without recognition of this truth we lack the resolve to work toward compromise and viable solutions and instead allow allegiance and difference to impair our reasoning powers. Self-interest and validation of values are driving factors that steer our decision making.

Insulated in cocoons constructed from social and mainstream media feeds, blogs, and friends with shared opinions, we look upon the world with righteous judgment. Disappointment lurks around every corner, manifesting in under paid employees, oppressive college debt, rising taxes, police brutality, inner city murders, bankrupt states.

It is easy to identify what's broken and even easier to point a finger at an apparent cause of this unraveling. Yet much of the national conversation about big ticket problems is propagated in tones of anger and fear which results in increased polarization of views. The proverbial middle of the road has lost all allure, and divisive and accusatory language and actions prevail.

It seems that we live in a world where the art of compromise is increasingly less valued, and instead instant access to information, factual or not, solidifies fore drawn conclusions and reinforces barriers. These barriers distort our perceptions of those we interact with and cause us to discount and overlook common ground. These self-made walls keep hidden the dignity that exists in all of us.

Kevin Mertz

Glen Ellyn