Waiting to Exhale

A timeless call to live in unity

Introduction

The adverse conditions of our national and global community have stolen our breath. This has caused many of us to feel as though we are suffocating because so many resulting emotions continue to ensue.

The pandemic, educational disruptions, racism, unemployment, social justice concerns, financial crisis, police brutality, political corruption, and the lack of human rights are among the problems that cast shadows of gloom and doom upon the landscape of our total being. So has the United States presidential campaign.

An underlying deficit has been unleashed because of these occurrences. Unity has been diminished and is virtually invisible among many groups of people.

The following words build capacity for unity to grow.

The Elements of Unity Simply Stated

“United we stand, divided we fall.” -Aesop

Peace and harmony reflect the true meaning of unity. Many individuals exhaustively find ways to ignite a passion for these thing. Despite their efforts, the reality is quite simple to grasp. Unconditional building blocks that grow and sustain unity already exist. These characteristics walk among as because they have been embedded in the spirit and soul of many who believe in them. The lives of these people reflect unity.

We must display a willingness and openness to embrace the attributes of unity to ensure that it is released until it blankets our nation and world. That means that these positive aspects must exist without the boundaries and limitations of hatred, tolerance, suspicion, and a singular perspective. These unconditional characteristics must include the following:

• Acceptance of the diversity of others
• Love
• A reflective spirit
• An authentic concern for all humanity
• Forgiveness
• Internal peace that flows outward
• A willingness to change a marginalized viewpoint to contribute to the well-being of others
• Compassion
• A genuine desire to understand
• Empathy
• Respect for others
• Align personal attitudes, beliefs, and actions so that they support the common good
• Remain devoted to removing blinders to the differences of others

It’s Up to Us

Each of us holds the key to building systemic unity. This key is within our grasp.

Step by step, moment by moment, situation after situation, and day by day, our attitudes, opinions, beliefs, values, and overall personal disposition really matters. These things influence whether unity becomes pervasive within our society.

Conclusion

Each of us must assume a responsibility in creating national and global unity.

Despite the outcome of the historic presidential election in the United States, unity must prevail. Regardless of the conditions that have consumed us globally because they have caused grief, division, and anger in recent months, unity is our answer for hope and healing.

We must amplify unity. We must exhale and embrace unity. Now is the time to start.

Here is my golden ticket that helps me accomplish my mission.

Dr. Deborah M. Vereen is a retired Teacher and School Administrator. Her website is www.Drdeborahmvereen.com and her YouTube Channel is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS1DPhBeA29UlybU9jzDkdQ .