Highlights of Humanity: The Ugly Reality of American Tragedy
written by JERMAINE FOWLER I HIGHLIGHTS OF HUMANITY I April 13, 2023
I.
The Main Idea
As I sit down to write this, I can't help but think about the digital age's impact on our lives. Our screens have become both a source of connection and a means to witness the worst of humanity. I am struck by the eerie reality of mass violence being live-streamed, like the recent Louisville, KY shooting that occurred only miles from my home. As we grapple with these tragedies, I believe it's crucial for us to maintain empathy, build connections, and foster a sense of community. You and I must resist the inclination to let mass violence beget mass indifference.
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II.
Two Quotes
This week, let's reflect on the importance of empathy and community in the midst of tragedy, drawing inspiration from the words of Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher
"To put the world right in order, we must first put the nation in order; to put the nation in order, we must first put the family in order; to put the family in order, we must first cultivate our personal life; we must first set our hearts right."
And Frantz Fanon, a 20th-century philosopher, psychiatrist, and revolutionary:
"Each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it."
Both Confucius and Fanon remind us of the importance of cultivating our personal lives and setting our hearts right to create a compassionate society. We must be aware of our mission to foster empathy, connection, and understanding in a world where mass violence threatens to overshadow our shared humanity.
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III.
A Story from the Silver Screen: Empathy in "The Messenger"
Have you ever seen the 2009 film titled "The Messenger," starring Woody Harrelson and Ben Foste? The movie follows the lives of two U.S. Army officers, played by Harrelson and Foster, who are tasked with the emotionally challenging duty of notifying families about the deaths of their loved ones serving in the military. Throughout the film, the characters wrestle with their own grief, guilt, and sense of responsibility as they deliver the heart-wrenching news to the bereaved families.
The film not only provides a raw and honest depiction of the devastating impact of war but also highlights the importance of empathy and connection during times of tragedy. As the characters navigate the complexities of their roles, they learn to rely on one another for support and understanding. In doing so, they exemplify the power of empathy to foster resilience and healing in the face of immense grief.
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IV.
What I'm Reading
I am currently reading "Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging" by Sebastian Junger. In this thought-provoking book, Junger explores the deep-rooted human need for community and belonging. He examines the importance of strong social bonds in fostering resilience and well-being, drawing on examples from various cultures, historical events, and his own experiences as a war reporter.
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V.
A Question to Consider
How can we cultivate empathy and maintain our connection to others, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable tragedy?
By addressing this question, we can begin to challenge the cycle of violence and indifference that has become all too familiar in American life. By actively cultivating empathy and connection, we can honor the memory of those lost in tragedies like the Louisville shooting and work towards creating a world where such violence becomes a distant memory.
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