During the fourth game of the World Series between two long time rivals – the Yankees and Dodgers, there was a long pause.
In unison, the players from both teams, umpires, crew and the almost 50,000 fans stood. Each held a placard with a name on it – representing the person they were standing up for who had – or is – battling cancer. It was part of a national effort from the organization Stand Up to Cancer.
It was a heart-felt reminder that even in divided contests, we are more united than we may realize. I believe, and research supports, that most people are decent and that we essentially want the same things; a good life for ourselves and our families. fairness, peace and freedom in our life and in the world chief amongst them. Even with seemingly contentious issues ranging from immigration, gun control to abortion, there is much more alignment that we are led to believe.
Yet there are some who seek to divide us – mostly in an effort to accumulate power for themselves. I recently watched the provocative John Sayles film Matewan. The story revolves around a coal mining town’s efforts to unionize. As the primary strategies to thwart their efforts, the mine owners try to divide the union; pitting the locals against their immigrant and African-American co-workers. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?
Another movie, The American President, featured a moving final speechwhere the incumbent’s remarks about his challenger are prescient when considering tomorrow’s election, saying:
“We have serious problems to solve, and we need serious people to solve them. And whatever your particular problem is, I promise you Bob Rumson is not the least bit interested in solving it. He is interested in two things, and two things only: making you afraid of it, and telling you who’s to blame for it.”
I don’t know about you but I am tired of those who try to divide us, who call people names, making others feel small in an attempt to feel big. I want a President who not only dials down the drama but turns up the volume of unity. Who is supported by members of the opposite party not rejected by those who have previously served side by side with them. I want someone who can inspire my children and not give them more cause for anxiety.
I appreciate that people have different political views informed by both their life experiences and the people they live with and love. They have different considerations, circumstances, frustrations and needs. They have heard and received information from different people and places that they trust that are different from mine. I get it.
Sometimes, when faced with choices, I wonder what historical people whose character is universally admired would have done.
Imagine if this group of people could vote in this election – Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr, Jesus, Princess Diana. Cesar Chavez and Mother Teresa.
They are among the list of most admired people in history. Who do you think they would vote for?
Of course, their imaginary votes won’t count. Frankly, mine won’t either as I live in a state that goes largely uncontested. But yours might.
Who will you stand up for?
This Week’s Recommendation: Exercise your right to vote.