The Power of Derision

As we approach the cross, I am reminded of another, more subtle form of violence: derision.

I was in college when the politically correct movement began. The premise was a good one: encouraging everyone to speak in a way that is respectful of others. But the consequences for those who misspoke were severe: if you were seen as prejudiced, racist, a homophobe or something else, you were quickly rejected and judged. There was no love. You became the pariah, the outcast. And the prejudice which once was aimed at those outside the societal norms now was aimed at you. Nothing really changed except that the object of derision shifted.

Gossip and derision are rampant in the media, for they excite our baser natures and increase adrenaline. It is hard to resist a good piece of gossip. It is hard to resist that meme that makes fun of your enemy, that paints him as a caricature. It strokes our powerful need to be right, it just plain feels good!

But when we engage in derision, we dismantle respect, reverence and what we once called good manners. Why is this important? Because our behavior shapes the very fabric of the culture in which we live and communicate. We do violence to the values that once made this country great when we slander and maim the reputation of another. We belittle ourselves.

It is so hard to resist derision when the other side is throwing slander at you. It takes enormous restraint and strong convictions. But, in the end, the one who shows respect gains trust. How much more powerful is the good old-fashioned argument? How much more do we gain perspective when we stand on higher ground? Jesus went to his death without maligning anyone. He told us to love our enemies and to forgive those who hurt us. What an example he has set for us! This holy week, in our own small ways, let us take the higher road.

A beautiful nine foot cross carved by Sue Carmichael