Often times we see someone or something different, and we form an opinion. That opinion is formed internally, but how we deal with our emotions alters the flow of the external world. Much like seeing a homeless person in the streets of downtown. Feelings of discomfort, pity, anger, even humor arise. A stereotype may arise. You may see them as addicts, lazy, or unmotivated.

But what if you knew the truth?

What would you do if you knew that the old woman on the corner with a cup grew up sustaining the neglect of a mother who shot heroin, and the father who stole her innocence every night? She snuck into her parent’s liquor cabinet just to feel in control and to escape reality. Always judged - never asked genuinely, “Are you okay?” Never seen by someone who’ll see through the lie - she’s only trying to hide the pain she’s invalidated for too long. 

You don’t see the perspective of others because our vision is clouded - the bills need to be paid, kids fed and clothed. To worry about those who are lost, we risk losing ourselves. In order to change, we must evaluate the root cause of oppression - but first, we need to observe human kindness.

- Zackaryanna, from Wilmington