Man Bites Dog

The dominate “media” seems interested only in that which catches the attention of people who, and circumstances which, will create a firestorm sucking in a horde that will create more “news.” The actions of people in Ferguson, Missouri, or the Oklahoma Frat boys who do something foolish are good examples of a firestorm that will keep the “media” busy stirring the pot trolling for more folks to get involved in the action.

In the meantime there is only a passing interest in the truly heroic actions of people, young and old, who ought to be the center of attention. For example, tell us about the men who found and saved the baby suspended upside down in a car for. . .what, 14 hours, after a car crash. Tell us about the kids who, on seeing their baby brother kidnapped, chased the thief down, yelling and attracting attention sufficiently to save the life of the little one.

I am convinced there are hundreds or thousands of stories like these all over our Country. I don’t believe good people don’t care about good things, and we are predominately good people. I find it hard to believe that people wouldn’t quickly grow accustomed to hearing such “feel good” stories and look for them in their own communities, and join in helping one another.

Ignore (as “news” stories) the foolish and the divisive. Concentrate on the positive, the encouraging,  the uplifting, and that which demonstrates genuine llove. A steady diet of good things might just cause people to focus on others, look for opportunities to help, build, restore, and care.

Of course, it might not work (most people will say so and believe so). But then, it won’t be because we haven’t tried. And to the best of my knowledge, in my lifetime, we haven’t.

Just because people can’t be redeemed by being good doesn’t mean we shouldn’t foster goodness in people.