By Nancy Virden (c)2017

“There is a principle which is a bar against all information, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance — that principle is contempt prior to investigation.”

-Herbert Spencer, 19th-century social philosopher

We see mass judging and a mob mentality of rage occurring these days. Relatively few of us are asking quality questions; fewer still are listening attentively for responses. A small minority are going out of their way to meet people, and to get to know those who think differently.

Of course, automatic disregard is directed at persons with mental illness, too. We who struggle with mood, personality, or thinking disorders are often stigmatized as “bad,” sinful, untrustworthy, and possibly violent. 

Everyone knows that humans tend to fear the unknown. Fear can manifest as anger and even hate if left to fester. Stigma is assumptions based on twisted or no facts and often thrives on fear.

So we are left with a choice in these turbulent times. Will we feed contempt for our differences by sticking to what we think we know about each other? Or will we challenge hearsay and stigma by asking questions? Will we see the humanity in those the world dehumanizes?

Soundbites are often considered to be truisms. Researched and observed information seems not as delightful as the latest TV show. Challenge yourself to go to reliable and scholarly sources. Meet people. See around opinions to the facts.

“Contempt prior to investigation” does not have to describe how we treat each other – unless we refuse to know better. 

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Exodus 23: 1,2

“Do not tell a lie about someone else. Do not join with the sinful to say something that will hurt someone.  Do not follow many people in doing wrong.”

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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