Why Are We So Divided Right Now?

Is it just us, or does the world seem a bit divided right now?
Human beings were not only created with a unique purpose, but also
created to live in community. However, there are two things that
can disrupt this call: division and distraction. Why these two?
Well, distractions are things that take us away from a given task
or goal, taking us away from living with a purpose. Likewise,
division takes away from living in community with those around us.
The twentieth century brought with it innumerable inventions of
distraction: things like television, radio, computers, etc. All of
these products are great innovations that have moved us forward in
our abilities to create community and showcase our unique
strengths, but they’ve also put distraction at our fingertips. It’s
not just technology that has caused distractions either. We can
become distracted by virtually anything: chores, work, leisurely
activities. But when we’re distracted, we’re held back from the
task at hand, and the ongoing task for all of us is to live in
community, and live with purpose. What does that mean for something
like politics? Well, if you’re American, you basically have two
political responsibilities as an American citizen: educate yourself
well on the politics in your country, and vote whenever elections
come around. Anything other than those two tasks are distractions
from the purpose of politics. When it comes to division, our
country has definitely had its fair share. So how do we fight
against this division that seems to be splitting our country?
Through conversation and through kindness. We’re called to be
united in community with those around us, so much so that Jesus
refers to them as our brothers and sisters. Division won’t be
conquered easily, but if we’re willing to converse, listen, and
treat each other with kindness, we can get a couple strides closer
to the community God desires for us.