Letter: Focus on understanding, not condemnation

Courageous business owners matter. Freedom of expression matters. And law enforcement matters.

As someone related to an employee at UpRising Baker and Cafe in Lake in the Hills, I am deeply grateful for the swift police action in response to the vandalism.

But let's also remember that what leads individuals to hate and lash out is deep and accumulated pain. Fear of being left behind, disconnection both real and perceived, and the relentless need of the ego to be validated through tribal behavior are some of the reasons people cross the line. The law codifies and enacts the consequences. But law breakers are humans, too. They need our help and acknowledgment. We see you, and we feel your pain.

There are no easy ways to fix the current crisis of division in this country. It won't come from politicians, the media or religious organizations.

It can only come from within each of us. Curiosity and openness lead to learning and understanding, understanding is caring, and caring produces quality and meaning.

How we choose to react to events in a complicated world is a personal and active choice. Our move.

Tom Jacobs

Chicago