We live in a culture that frequently discusses inclusivity. It’s displayed on storefronts and included in government mandates. Yet, society has never felt more divided and unstable.
If we’re honest, many of these symbolic gestures that we see, such as renaming streets, raising flags, and the various marches, are attempts to soothe wounds with signs and symbols, rather than real solutions.
We long to feel seen, but we have forgotten that we are already seen by the One who created us.
About 2000 years ago, Jesus walked alongside sinners who were considered the lowest of the low in those times. Those suffering from physical ailments and those who society thought were ‘worthless’.
He did this to include everyone, ensuring nobody felt left out or divided.
I have nothing against cultural, ethic, or national pride. But when we start shining a spotlight on certain groups, we risk sending a message that unity can only be achieved through segmentation. To declare that one group needs special recognition often implies that others do not. And that is not unity.
We seem to be obsessed these days with the term ‘sexuality’, and I am not sure why. Furthermore, if we as adults seem confused on the subject, why on earth are we bringing children into the conversation? Let children be children and let them focus on what children do best. Let them play, explore, laugh, and learn.
Pride in one’s identity must never come at the cost of forgetting that we are all children of the same Father. We are stronger when we are united.
True inclusivity isn’t just for show. We don’t need parades and demonstrations, which often become scenes of violence and death.
What we need is kindness on the streets.
It doesn’t require a street name change or a rainbow logo. It exists in the hearts of everyone who knows they are made in the image of Love. Pride isn’t a virtue; humility is.