[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by Rags123

Not sure why I am even posting this, but perhaps because the fear I feel is probably coming through in my posts. There is a post on another thread about listening to both sides on issues, and I could not agree more. That may surprise folks who THINK they know how I feel, but it is true to a fault sometimes.

I very seldom, if ever, talk about myself or what I did before retired, but it is germaine to know that I spent many years at a fairly high level involved in something that we do not talk about on here (yes it was legal, just frowned upon here)

In that role and in that world, I was exposed to what happened in the 60's regarding race in a unique manner. I will just say that I left my job under protest because I felt the black population was being set up to be used as pawns. I still feel that they have been "used" in that way, and the "users" are expanding that in our time. I am speaking in very general terms here on purpose.

This is not a blanket condemnation by any means, because much of that "usage" (my word) has become so institutionalized, but what is happening now harkens me back to that day.

That day was when misinformation was the key way to control. There are many who have a vested interest in the black community and insuring they are portrayed as victims. MLK was the closest to understanding whT was happening but he was cut short. I really believe that if somehow, someway, we can present facts ...ALL OF THEM, even the uncomfortable ones and do it in a rational way, we will be ok.

Problem is, MLK understood that and he understood the rule of law. My bet is he would be on CNN applauding the police while gathering facts, while teaching those who are preaching race ON BOTH SIDES to just listen. We do not have that today....we are so sheparded by our instant, and most times uninformed media, and so called leaders (who, trust me have a vested interest in all if this is) that with that void of men or women we are on the precipice of disaster.

Some actually want and desire this divide..they have interest in having it exist..you decide who that is, but if you honestly listen to both sides..if you honestly read both sides, I think you will see the direction is focused on the negative. We have NO leaders to steer us clear.

Sorry..just had to say this once and for all and will bid my adieu.

Thank you Rags. You are right.We all need to try to do better. It is so hard to not be drawn into this mess. We are all heading the wrong direction. We need to remember Martin Luther King and what he stood for. We need to bring up uncomfortable issues and talk about them. And be the change we seek.