I was really distraught with seeing the death of George Floyd; it was extremely sad, disturbing, and disheartening.
His death has caused a domino effect and the ensuing global responses have been massive. People around the world, even, in Copenhagen, France, and Germany, are joining the revolution and calling for change.
Well, there are two sides to every story. So, of course, there are also those who are not quite ready for change. Due to leaked or voluntary public stance, we have seen resignations, terminations, and loss of corporate partnerships, e.g., Crossfit. However, some remain in position, e.g., Drew Brees, but to the tune of loud vocal opposition – prompting apologies and dialogue.
I’ve also been seeing a variety of potential solutions put forth to solve social injustice, police brutality, and the like. Solutions include:
— legislation,
— filling police vacancies with local residents, and
— redirecting a portion of police funds to shore up various areas in the community.
However, as I think about it, the solution really has to do with the heart of people. From Derek Chauvin’s actions to the words that are prompting resignations and terminations, you can see hearts.
‘Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.’ So for those who publicly made insensitive comments; they were really just speaking their reality – their norm . . . speaking what is in their hearts.
I’m pretty sure you cannot legislate hearts.. But, compassion, integrity, and character are ingredients for sustainable change. So, at this point, I think we all need to take stock of what’s in our heart. What are we filling are heart with? What are we teaching and modeling for our children or those who could be observing us from afar?
Sustainable change requires a heart change.