Decency

“Friends who want to stay friends don’t discuss religion or politics.”

These days my Facebook feed is filled with political and religious advertisement and opinion. Twitter seems to be the same. The news, albeit traditional or online, is a running commentary of chaos. Hollywood continues to replicate our realities in its respective mediums while the media’s inevitable influence extends to all areas of our consumerism.

There’s no escape from political and religious jargon and discourse. It’s never-ending.

The problem with politics and religion isn’t discourse, but rather decency.

Fika, as an institution and an integral part of this project, is about connection. It’s a purposeful investment in others, which in turn becomes self-serving for character development and fulfillment. It’s the missing piece.

This is no longer an “us and them” argument. It extends far beyond the reach of parties or varying faiths and texts.

In openness and vulnerability, the opposing viewpoints are garnering a response to refute. It’s become the norm for immediate dismissal of opposition, a quick cast of judgment, and instant citation of evidence or doctrine.

But what about decency?

I don’t pretend to be an expert in politics or religion. I’m more novice than I care to admit. I am, however, willing to engage. I have only one request. Be decent.