Freedom Causing Revoution?

The recent events in the middle east, prompted by violence, anti-Muslim videos and retaliation has spread to at least 6 places including Libya, Egypt and Yemen, with many fears it could grow even more. History lends itself as a constant example. The spread of revolutions, nationalism, socialism, communism, fascism all show how this civil unrest must be taken seriously. Already on the brink of hatred, any provocation could have devastating consequences. Our presence in many of these countries have been unsteady at the best of times, and handling this new surge of violence could tell how our relations might progress in the future. As social media tips the scales, this growing unrest could spark another spree of anti-Western beliefs.

So the solution seems to have been to put forth an anti-Muslim video. At which point I must ask Why? Our society fights to the death for our freedom; freedom of speech, right to own guns, the right to live as we so choose. Yet we consider our freedom from religious oppression to extend only as far as ourselves. To others, we provide such ignorance and bigotry that I question the intention and the very fibers of those involved. We are each responsible not only for ourselves but for the impact we impart on the world around us. If what we put out is restriction of freedom, oppression and hatred, we cannot call ourselves free. Those who act against freedom cannot claim to be a part of a free nation since it undermines the very ideals that it holds.

Our guarantee of free speech should not be allowed to be held up as a human shield that cowards hide behind to spit out their hate. Now I don’t know what the outcome will be to this new crisis in the Middle East. It will certainly be a part of our upcoming elections. I know many will say that the hatred was already there, the suspicions awaiting an excuse to act. This might be, but why give that excuse? Would we act hostile to a friend who was already hurt and angry at us because we have an ability to do so? Would we prod a cornered bear? Let’s try to not use our freedom as an excuse for our poor treatment of others. Maybe freedom shouldn’t be our only goal, maybe what we strive for should be compassion and caring, perhaps some understanding. Freedom seems to be easy compared to this.