No To Violence

In a world that feels increasingly polarized, it took me several days to craft this article, not because I lacked words, but because our current climate makes sharing an opinion a perilous endeavor. The fear of triggering a divisive meltdown looms large. Yet, I am compelled to speak, for silence breeds complacency.

Two people dear to my heart, Javier Rasquides and Shanté Morgan , embody the complexity of our times. I love them both like family, yet our views on certain subjects could not be more divergent. We've learned to navigate these differences, agreeing to disagree and focusing on the love and admiration that form the bedrock of our friendships.

With Shante, it’s more challenging. Raised together, our bond is more familial than friendly. She’s my sounding board, and often, I don’t realize we’ve hit a contentious topic until it’s too late. Our conversations end abruptly with her stern “LOOK,” a prelude to “If you don’t want my opinion, don’t ask me! Next subject, please.” It’s her way of saying, “Proceed with caution.”

Javier, a former employee and a steadfast friend, also embodies this dichotomy. He checks in periodically, a reminder of the good times we shared. Yet, there is one subject, one person, on which we clash so profoundly that discussion is futile. The worst it ever gets is me scrolling past his Instagram posts, silently acknowledging our impasse. Healthy debate and seeing life through another’s lens used to be the norm. So why has “agree to disagree” become such a rare commodity?

Why has a simple difference of opinion become a catalyst for hate speech, violence, and societal division? Violence is never the answer, and fighting should not equate to losing friends. Surely, most of us do not harbor a spirit of hate. If we genuinely desire to act from a place of love and peace, we must begin by taking small, meaningful steps. Start by taking one step without yelling, then two more steps, releasing anger, and finally, three steps toward your so-called enemy. When face-to-face, extend a hand or offer a hug. Begin anew with dialogue and active listening.

This weekend’s shooting weighs heavily on my heart. Some topics are taboo on LinkedIn, but sometimes, life’s harsh realities must take precedence over work. The emotions are overwhelming: sadness for the senseless loss, anger at the hollow response of thoughts and prayers, and confusion over the easy access to military-grade weapons. The mention of the victims' age and political status only adds to the bewilderment. How can someone be pro-life yet pro-gun?

I empathize deeply with the families who lost loved ones and with those who fear everyday activities, from sending their children to school to running errands or simply opening the wrong car door or attending a rally. What’s most concerning is the normalization of such violence, the fear that we will become desensitized to these tragedies. It’s this fear that drives me to speak out, despite the risk of offending someone.

I’m not here to attack gun owners or debate the Second Amendment. I’m a concerned citizen yearning for a better future. We must work together to find solutions that safeguard our communities. This isn’t about politics or ideology; it’s about ensuring no one else endures the pain and heartache these families face.

We must halt, listen, and extend our hands toward each other. Only then can we bridge the divides that separate us, fostering a world where love and understanding triumph over hate and discord. Let’s rekindle the lost art of agreeing to disagree, and in doing so, rediscover our shared humanity.

Thanks for reading,

William Rochelle, but you can call me Bill

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