A Word about Brokenness
A Word about Brokenness
It is not necessary for me to retell the stories of violence and catastrophe in our cities. We in Dallas were touched tragically by the events of the past few days. Similar events have been repeated many times over in many other locations for years!
One sad fact of our lives is that many people are broken. And brokenness often results in broken-heartedness!
Brokenness also leads to hurt and anger and resentment. It often results in criticism, blaming, accusing, fear, hatred and violence. We see it all around us, and each of us must ask the question: “Do I see it in me?”
In his 1964 acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Violence never brings permanent peace!”
(You may click on the image below to see the complete transcript of that speech.)
Lives matter! All lives matter, regardless of race or culture. Loss of life due to prejudice and violence is never a reason to celebrate but always a reason to mourn.
Yes, brokenness is a fact of life and a fact of the world in which we live. It requires deep, consistent soul-searching on the part of each and every one of us to determine:
- Our role in the perpetuation of prejudice and violence, and
- The changes we need to make in order to become instruments of healing and peace instead of instruments of brokenness and broken heartedness.
May I suggest that one starting place is to commit to safety–that we determine to treat everyone in our lives in such a way that will help them feel respected and safe.
We can begin by listening to what they are saying, being patient with people who see things differently than we do and treating them with grace and forgiveness when appropriate.
Safety is also a byproduct of fidelity. When we decide to be faithful to our families (including our parents, our spouses and our children) and to others who are a part of our lives (friends, neighbors, co-workers, and even fellow-drivers:), healing can take place and violence will steadily subside.
In the prayerful, powerful words of Jill Jackson Miller and Sy Miller:
“Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.”
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