Artwork created by Gracie for a student art show at the Paradise Center for the Arts, Faribault. Minnesota Prairie Roots edited file photo March 2018.
LIFE CAN BE TOUGH sometimes, really tough.
Five dead in a Minneapolis high-rise fire last week.
Four dead, including two young brothers and their mother, in an act of domestic violence in south Minneapolis just days ago.
Nine killed in an airplane crash in South Dakota.
The headlines and media reports can overwhelm.
Yesterday, a 16-year-old boy was taken into custody in my community after reportedly sending threatening texts to two students that he was “thinking about shooting up the school.” Faribault High School. A similar, but worse, scenario played out in violence in two eastern Wisconsin schools in recent days.
I wish the world was free of meanness, violence, hatred and tragedies. But it isn’t and never will be. Yet we have the power within our homes, our neighborhoods, our communities, our circle of family and friends, yes, within our hearts to individually treat others with kindness, compassion, empathy and respect. And that is a start.
THOUGHTS?
© Copyright 2019 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
Powerful post today. I truly do not understand the petty meanness, hatred and violence. It sparks chaos and tragedies that we may not receive a why for and that leaves feelings of hopelessness and what can I do. Show hope, kindness, give a helping hand, compassion, respect, etc. It starts in the home, the neighborhood, the community to think about doing the right thing versus doing harm. That is not an easy feat. People are hurting for multiple reasons, there may be despair and depression, there may be mental health and health issues, etc. There needs to be a safe place to go that offers open dialogue and access to resources. I am so grateful to those that volunteer and give their expertise to the community and every one of has something to share and give of ourselves to others. ((((((Take Care Everyone)))))
Well summarized. Thank you for your thoughtful comment.
It reminds me of the saying that goes something like this: Be kind to everyone because we are all fighting a battle of some sort.
That is so true, Valerie. Thank you for sharing that powerful quote.
You are so right, Audrey. We all have the capacity for kindness and compassion, for eradicating meanness and greed. But human nature is steeped in selfish behavior which sometimes begets violence; we have to keep working at it. Keep practicing. Keep loving.
You are so right, Kathleen. Thank you for being the kind and compassionate individual that you are.
I like what Kathleen said. Selfish behavior, hurt people, and feelings of hopelessness and desperation do beget violence and crime. Keeping with acts of kindness and compassion, and being love can bring change.
Kathleen is a beautiful soul and gifted writer.
I think Gracie’s work is telling. The USA has become the world’s police force. This is indicated by the eagle spreading its wings over the peace sign decorated with the flags of the world’s nations. That is a tall order.
May you all walk this life with the armor of God to keep you safe in a world where evil lurks.
Interesting observation on the art and a wonderful comment thereafter.
I often wonder what happened to people in their lives that they feel the need to treat people the way they do.
Good question.
Yes indeed there is a feeling of hopelessness in this world but rising above mean spirited selfish actions with acts of compassion and kindness is a start.
Absolutely. And I know you do your part.