In one of my favorite old movies, Support Your Local Sherriff, James Garner, playing the titular sheriff, says to Bruce Dern’s character “Joe, you just make me feel tired all over when you talk like that.”
I know how he feels.
I am tired all over, and mostly its because of things people say.
Racism is a problem in America. It has been a problem since the 1600s. It is a systemic problem. People don’t want to hear that. They don’t want to believe that. They don’t want their children taught that. So they rise up in anger to protest teaching actual history in favor of a literally whitewashed version more consistent with the version of history they like. We cannot repent of sin until we admit we have it.
Covid 19 Delta is a serious problem in America. Infection rates across the country are actually surpassing the peak during the lock down. People don’t want to hear that. They don’t want to get vaccinated. They don’t want to keep wearing masks. They don’t want to take it seriously because it is uncomfortable and inconvenient and disruptive. They have somehow made it about freedom and politics and in doing so are actively aiding the spread of a deadly disease. We cannot care for the sick if we will not recognize the disease.
Climate Change is a serious problem in America. The Pacific Northwest is suffering under temperatures that are unprecedented. Infrastructure all over the world is collapsing because of rising sea levels and temperatures. People don’t want to address it. People don’t want to take it seriously. They would rather believe the people who profit off the flames than the ones telling them to get out of the burning house. So they call it a hoax and fake news, and will until it is too late. We cannot be stewards of the Earth and worry about our bottom line.
Like I said.
Tired. All. Over.