Be Quiet, It’s Christmas

I swore never to be silent whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. -Elie Wiesel

“It has gotten to a point where I am genuinely annoyed at everyone else’s annoyance – be it social, political, or otherwise. It’s the week before Christmas, folks. Make some cocoa, sing a song, and get on with life.”

I saw the post on Facebook. An acquaintance had typed a message meant for peace, but rooted in disgust and ignorance. I couldn’t help but think, yes, it’s Christmas, but what are we going back to? Our “annoyance” was for police brutality, the injustice that has occurred in our “justice” system, and the racism and prejudice that has been embedded deeply into our society.

So, I read the comment on the Facebook status below.

“That’s exactly how I feel- especially on Tumblr right now! I’m taking a bit of the break from the despair of the world; I want to take this time to be grateful for what I do have right now.”

I’m definitely grateful for what I have: a roof over my head, the opportunity to get a wonderful education, enough food to eat, and my life, but I wasn’t happy about the way many minorities are treated in today’s society.

I use Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and my blog to post opinions, share stories, and communicate with like-minded people who want more for our future, and wish to do so in a very peaceful manner. The situation had me confused. How could my posts online be so offensive and annoying to someone who purposely chose to follow me online?

I wrote a post last year about how my favorite holiday was Christmas. I spoke about how I loved that the holiday was about gathering together with family and being thankful for what you have, but I also mentioned how it was about being there and helping those in need. If you see someone struggling, help them—and if you see a problem that needs to be fixed, then you can lend a hand as well.

I see too many signs lit up brightly that call for peace on earth, noel, and good will towards men, but behind the signs I see those throwing money at things that they don’t need and greedily asking for more. They put their signs up, but they rather sit idly by than do something about it, and I suppose that’s fine. It’s their life and their opinion.

Somewhere along the way the world twisted around what Christmas was all about. They hid behind their signs instead, while the “annoying” people on Tumblr and Facebook grabbed their own signs and spoke up. The “annoying” people online have shown their support for the those striving to make a change, and they have lent a hand in order to one day witness peace on earth and good will towards all men.