The political refugees are coming here to avoid violence, poverty and corruption in their own countries. We have to ask ourselves, how bad would things have to be in your own country, for you to undertake this kind of trip. Years ago, we drove down to Costa Rica. There were hours of roadway with no places to stop and grab a bite to eat, get a hotel, any of the first world things we take for granted. Mountains, valleys, deserts, heat were part of the terrain. Thinking of traveling by foot through such a journey is horrific, and we had money for food, gas, hotels, and a safe truck.
Sending the refugees back will breed more hatred and desperation on their part. It will also load up the gangs that have a strong hold in Central America. The gangs offer protection and support to their members, and build up more hatred and anger to the richer nations.
If you are afraid of the refugees, be more afraid of not helping them.
We in the developed world are being needlessly pummeled with messages of fear. What we need to do is realize that our nation has a common ground, readily visible: We all want safety and the chance to pursue happiness. Safe and happy. Really, it's that easy.
And the way to this can be achieved in a way that serves us all. We can research opportunities to help the political migrants be secure in their own countries. Despite what the current President has stated, the U.S. is still providing money to Central America. The money is for issues that help their citizens: less violence, economic opportunities, food. Helping our neighbors where they live is what truly keeps us safe. Hiding in fear and relying on our military to block the borders breeds anger, resentment and chaos.
There is the argument that the countries should figure things out on their own. Yes, they should figure things out. We don't want to be full-time, forever babysitters. But until they can, they need help, not more problems in already unstable governments.
In the past, I have avoided writing about political issues. But the politics of our time can be solved through spiritual examples. When I look for spiritual guidance, I ask in the name of my highest good, and all of those connected to me. Where does my connection begin and end? It does not. Is it with my children, family, friends, town, county, state, city, country, world. What serves the world, serves my children and every thing in between. The U.S. is not an island. What we do comes back to us. If we are sending out safety, hope and support, it comes back to us. A boomerang of positive support returns with a peace that transpires through out the world.
Piper Peppertree learns that replacing fear with caring compassion can bring love as it's reward.
And she is only inches high!
Heather Leigh,
Searching for common ground
