"Culture" Shock
- Jude Paglia

- Sep 11
- 2 min read
I am sickened, just sickened by the disgusting comments by people on social media commending the assassination of a human, a father, a husband, a friend, a fellow American. Someone who was strong in their faith and wanted to share that faith with others. Somehow, when it comes to faith, it doesn't seem welcomed in the inclusive, accepted, freedom of speech, authenticity narrative that's supposedly happening in the "culture."
Culture - Another word that's making me sick.
There are no rules, and there is no honor that expands across the lines, be it political or cultural, in our day and age.

It's sad and scary.
I have kept many of my beliefs to myself, with regard to happenings in society. Because the areas where I disagree clash with many people I care about, and there seems to be no good in hashing it out on screens and keyboards.
The conversation that's going on is NOT to gain understanding. It's to be loud, to get heard, and to push agenda. There can be no resolution in a shouting match. Or a keyboard battle.
Attending church, adoration, faith-based gatherings, and conferences now sparks an initial thought of what dangers may arise.
Sitting quietly in adoration, I am now aware of my own vulnerability and the fact that anyone could choose to initiate a massacre because they disagree and can't just allow me to do what brings me peace.

The vernacular needs to change. Mental health is at the root of all the distress in the world. Emotional management, tolerance, and empathy need to become the driving forces behind interactions. EVERYONE'S safety needs to matter to all of us.
I fear the future for our civilization.
But regardless, my trust and faith in God prevails. I know the story, I know the path of the past to the present, I know whose I am, and where I am going.
But make no mistake, even those who are steadfast in faith are still human with human emotions like fear and concern, and desires for a life of contentment and joy. While we know the battle belongs to Him, we also know the reality of human casualties.

I don't know where this is going, but I know who holds my hand.
And I'll keep walking on this path of faith, trying to shine a light, with a vigilant eye on what is happening around me, and pray for the safety to live authentically.




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