The Elliot Rodgers social media storm has kicked up the ugly dust of misogyny, feminism, and gender entitlement. Mental illness, and the correct way to address it, have also been topics of social media discussion. By far the most central topic, as least in my world, has been the sum of societal attitudes towards women. I don't have a frame of reference to the core of the discussion. According to the narrative I am part of the problem. So be it. What can I do?
This is what I'm going to do: I will take my own societal persecution frames of reference and use these to feel empathy towards others. I will listen to others' personal stories, bravely shared, and learn to live my life in such a way that I am not the entitled persecutor. I will share some social links that I feel are relevant, and touch my heart, even if I don't have a fully engaged frame of reference. Lastly, I will continue to live life knowing that there are many struggles played out everyday, we are to have perseverance.
My dear friend is onto something with her 100 days of happiness. Injustice and unfairness will always existed, but having personal happiness is a rare gift that should be promoted and nurtured. “Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2 ).