From the Stacks … November 13th, 2020

In November of 2016, Jonathan found himself contemplating the initial difficulty that always appears whenever there is talk of “repairing the breach.” His thoughts are oddly applicable today. See if you agree.

 

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A great book once alleged that there is great power in “repairing the breach”–finding that break in etiquette or sensibility that can be covered with a multitude of grace.

It is a noble notion.

The difficulty with the mission is that people will often argue with you about whether there’s a breach in the first place. After all, a common conversation with fifty Americans will render much different responses:

• Is racism a problem in America?
• Is chauvinism an overpowering issue?
• Should poverty be addressed or should we just try to motivate people to work harder?
• Is there a God or are we on our own?
• Are people of different lifestyles entitled to all equal rights?
• Should we judge people by the color of their skin?
• Should we question religions?
• Is it possible that some people are just better than others?
• Do the heavens have a “chosen people?”

If we cannot agree that there’s a breach, then the repairing will be considered foolish or intrusive.

What can we agree on about our pain before we seek a relief?

It is not so much that our problems are complicated–it’s more that they’re denied.